The end of Sergio Perez's adventure in Red Bull now seems written. Confirming what until now was only a mix of rumours and indiscretions was the journalist Julien Febreau of Canal +, who announced that the Milton Keynes team has already chosen the Mexican's replacement: Liam Lawson will sit alongside Max Verstappen next season. The official announcement, according to rumors, is expected in the next few days.
The Perez chapter is closed
Sergio Perez's season ended with disappointments and difficulties, also due to the lack of competitiveness of the RB20. Despite this, Verstappen took home the drivers' championship, while Perez, in addition to not having won a single race, had a drop in performance that made it impossible to defend his position. Rumors of his replacement have been circulating for months, especially after the renewal, but now the die is cast.
Liam Lawson, according to Canal+, has convinced Red Bull to opt for a change of plan. Febreau said: “We can confirm that Sergio Perez will no longer drive for the Red Bull team next year. The decision has been made and will be announced by the end of the week. His replacement will be Liam Lawson.”
For the young New Zealander, who closed 2024 at the wheel of Racing Bulls replacing Daniel Ricciardo, a huge challenge lies ahead: taking up the legacy of an experienced driver like Perez and competing alongside three-time world champion Max Verstappen. A double challenge then. Given that over the years that second seat has passed to various drivers, who have then not shown they can hold their own against Max.
Tsunoda and the missed opportunity
Among the contenders for the Red Bull seat was also Yuki tsunoda, who had the opportunity to show off his skills in the Abu Dhabi tests. However, the decision now seems to have been made, leaving the Japanese driver to face an uncertain future at Racing Bulls.
The official announcement will put an end to months of speculation and open a new chapter for Red Bull. The choice of Lawson represents a generational change that looks to the future, but also a calculated risk for a team that cannot afford any more missteps.
