Sergio Perez is prepared to look at other options away from Red Bull for 2024, should he feel that he can longer “contribute” to the Milton Keynes-based team’s success.
Perez’s future with Red Bull has been a big talking point recently, with the Mexican having endured a poor run of form ahead of the summer break.
Following his P2 at the Miami Grand Prix, the 33-year-old went on a five-race run of no Q3 appearances, and only one podium.
However, since the Hungarian Grand Prix – where he finished third – the Mexican has shown significantly better form.
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Despite this, many have criticised how superior Max Verstappen has been alongside Perez, and how the experienced driver hasn’t taken the fight to the Dutchman.
As a result, his future with the team has been questioned, even though he’s got a deal for next season.
What hasn’t helped the situation is that there are contrasting messages coming out of the Red Bull camp, with team principal Christian Horner having insisted that Perez will remain with the team in 2024, whereas advisor Dr Helmut Marko has admitted that nothing is “certain” in F1.
Adding further flames to the fire, Perez has now admitted that he’s prepared to “look for alternatives” for next season if he doesn’t feel like he can support the team’s title challenge.
However, his focus is on remaining with the team and seeing out his contract.
“I think that now, with the season we’ve had, it’s important in the next races to be in an environment where I feel I can contribute,” formu1a.uno quotes Perez as having told DAZN.
“And if that place in 2024 isn’t here, then we have to look for alternatives.
“But for now, my main focus is to stay here and win more races. And keep on winning championships with Red Bull.
“As you say, I have a contract for next year. So, at some stage next year, we’ll see.”
If Perez were to dramatically leave Red Bull, he wouldn’t have many options.
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Just AlphaTauri, Williams and Alfa Romeo (soon to be known as Sauber in 2024) have a seat available for next season, leaving Perez with few limited options should he leave Red Bull.
A move to Red Bull’s sister team is extremely unlikely, as is a move to Alfa Romeo given that they don’t need a second experienced driver alongside Valtteri Bottas.
Even Williams is somewhat unlikely, as they appear to have faith in Logan Sargeant’s development.