Despite his inconsistent performances and the constant rumours, Sergio Perez seems destined to remain in his position at Red Bull for at least another season. According to the website F1-Insider, the reason behind Perez's confirmation would not be linked to sporting considerations, but rather to an economic constraint hidden in his contract with Red Bull.
The much-discussed termination clause, which would have allowed Red Bull to get rid of the Mexican driver in the event of unsatisfactory results, would have disappeared from the contract renewal for 2025. An important change that makes the eventual dismissal of Perez much more complicated and costly. According to rumors, Horner would have to pay a severance package of around 20 million dollars to end his relationship with the former Racing Point driver early.
Colapinto instead of Perez, an operation too expensive
In addition to the cost of firing Perez, Red Bull should consider a further outlay to secure a suitable replacement. Among the most quoted names is the young Argentine talent Franco Colapinto, currently under contract with Williams. However, to secure the rookie, the Milton Keynes team would have to shell out another 20 million dollars to release him from his current team. In total, Red Bull would have to pay a figure close to 40 million just to change the second driver.
An Uncertain Future: The Decision After Abu Dhabi
Helmut Marko and Christian Horner have already anticipated that the final decision will be made after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the last race of the season. Red Bull's final placement in the Constructors' standings could influence the choice, given that even a few points can make the difference when it comes to millionaire prizes. Perez's confirmation therefore seems to be linked not only to the issue of the clause, but also to a strategic evaluation of the available financial resources.
Perez ready to fight to the end
Sergio Perez, for his part, reiterated that he does not want to give up his seat easily. The Mexican said he had at least two opportunities to change teams, but he preferred to stay with Red Bull to prove he can compete at the highest level. “I want to end my career at the top, where the pressure is at its highest,” he said. Perez knows he is under scrutiny, but he is determined to play every card, both on and off the track.
A puzzle yet to be solved
Perez's future remains a puzzle. On the one hand, there is Red Bull's desire to guarantee the best possible team for 2025, on the other, the high costs and contractual complications that could block any change. The game is still open, and the final outcome will depend not only on the results on the track, but also on negotiations outside the spotlight. What is certain is that, at the moment, Perez has no intention of giving up without a fight.
