Sergio Perez is experiencing the most difficult period since he joined Red Bull. His teammate has just won the world championship without having given anyone the chance to challenge him. The Mexican hasn't been able to keep up with him and the latest accidents and bad results, despite having the most competitive car on the grid, are putting him in a bad light and at risk of being fired. According to what was reported by the Germans of Car, engine and sport, Perez he would therefore have asked Red Bull to drive the RB19 with the pre-Barcelona specifications, hoping to find the rhythm that allowed him to obtain two victories in the two opening races. However, his request was reportedly rejected by Red Bull. Among the main reasons for this opposition, the team cited cost and convenience.
The difficulties started in Barcelona
Perez, saw a significant decline after the Spanish Grand Prix. The Mexican won two of the opening races and looked set to take the lead in the drivers' championship for the first time in his career until Max Verstappen he didn't take the fastest lap from him in Saudi Arabia. From Miami onwards, where Perez was beaten by Verstappen in a comeback from ninth position – the former Force India driver's performance declined significantly. Although he has a contract until 2024, his position could surprisingly change.
The Mexican pilot has publicly expressed the desire to drive a less updated version of the current car which would contribute to its consistency. “I think you need to have a more consistent base throughout the season and have a car that doesn't change so much throughout the year. This also contributes to being more consistent: I think it will be the key, because that's what happened in the first races. When we started developing the car, I had the feeling that the car was moving away from me. I had to keep finding the balance, making compromises. It's something we are all aware of and we hope that next year the story will be different."
It's impossible for Red Bull to fulfill Checo's wish
However, Red Bull rejected this request, highlighting the practical incompatibility of having two different car specifications and the uncertainties associated with upgrades.
Perez's future with Red Bull now seems uncertain. With Max Verstappen and Red Bull dominating in 2023, Perez's inability to adapt to the new specifications could cost him his position in the team. The next Grand Prix ad Austin and Mexico represent a crucial opportunity for Perez to prove his worth and secure a place in the team for next season.
Not forgetting that, the latest rumors in the paddock indicate that the Red Bull super advisor, Helmut Marko be ready to make drastic decisions if Perez does not improve his performances. There has been talk of a possible promotion of drivers from AlphaTauri, including Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson, if Perez fails to redeem himself in the upcoming races.
