Sergio Perez has unequivocally put an end to speculation regarding his future with Red Bull Racing, asserting that he will remain with the team for the 2024 Formula 1 season.
Despite enduring a challenging year in which he fell 209 points behind his teammate, Max Verstappen, who clinched the 2023 title in Qatar, Perez’s determination to fulfil his contract and his dedication to the sport remain unwavering.
With Verstappen’s point total alone being sufficient to maintain Red Bull’s lead in the Constructors’ Championship, Perez has faced increasing pressure to secure second place in the Drivers’ standings.
This heightened scrutiny led to ongoing reports throughout the season suggesting that Perez could potentially be dropped by Red Bull at the conclusion of the year, despite having a contract through 2024.
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However, ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Perez dispelled these rumours and affirmed his commitment to Red Bull.
He commented, “There’s nothing I can do about the stories. I’m fully focused on my job.
“That really sums up my season: a guy says something about me, and all of a sudden, it becomes true.”
Regarding his contract with Red Bull, Perez emphasised, “But I have a contract for next year, and I have no reason not to fulfil that contract.
“I’m going to give my very best to it.
“I’ve made a commitment, but it will not be my final contract in Formula 1.”
When asked if he was certain about remaining with Red Bull for the 2024 season, Perez replied confidently, “100%.”
He reiterated this assurance by emphasising that he had held conversations with the team and its key figures, such as team principal Christian Horner and advisor Helmut Marko.
Perez added, “I have a contract and conversations with the team as well. There is no reason for me not to fulfil that contract.”
While acknowledging that his current contract is not his last in Formula 1, he expressed his focus on the present challenge and his career longevity.
Perez emphasised, “I’m not thinking about that, but I’m just enjoying it at the moment. I’m loving the challenge of getting back out of it [the recent slump].
“I’m 33, and I think I’ve got some good years ahead of me.
“As an athlete, you want to maximise your career.
“That’s important to me, and that’s my focus.”
Despite his commitment to Red Bull, Perez acknowledged that it is essential for both sides to find common ground for their partnership to continue.
While he previously sought the assistance of a mental coach to overcome the negative energy stemming from his on-track struggles, Perez dismissed rumours of contemplating an abrupt retirement from Formula 1.
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He stated, “It’s not ideal when you go through a difficult period of your career. But I just love the challenge of getting back at it.
The easiest thing would be to just walk out of it. But that’s not me, that’s not who I am, and I will not give up.
“I have zero doubts about being back to my best level, and that is my only target that I have in mind.”