Christian Horner explains Sergio Perez contract decision as door closes on Carlos Sainz

Red Bull relies on Sergio Perez to secure points for the team and perform at his best.

Christian Horner believed “now is an important time” to confirm Sergio Perez will continue with Red Bull, the Mexican driver having been given a new two-year deal with the team.

Horner stressed the importance of “continuity and stability” within the team as Perez penned a new contract until 2026, which would take him to six seasons as a Red Bull driver by the deal’s conclusion.

Christian Horner praises Sergio Perez after new deal confirmed

Numerous contenders vied for the coveted spot beside Max Verstappen at Red Bull in the upcoming season, while the reigning World Champion remains contracted to the team until 2028.

Horner had namechecked both RB drivers, Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo, among those looking to stake their claim for a drive at Red Bull, while Carlos Sainz had also raised eyebrows with his early drives and remains on the open market after it was announced he will be leaving Ferrari at the end of the season.

However, the team principal of Red Bull remains confident in the current line-up, Perez and Verstappen, deeming them a “successful and strong partnership” alongside the reigning World Champions, based on the initial performance of the season.

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Upon the announcement of the new contract, Horner expressed his satisfaction in continuing to work with Checo and emphasized the significance of confirming our line-up for 2025.

Last year, our team achieved its first-ever one-two finish in the Championship, thanks to the successful and strong partnership of Checo and Max. Continuity and stability are crucial for the team’s success.

Checo’s performance at the beginning of 2024 has been impressive, securing second positions in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Japan, followed by a well-deserved podium finish in China.

We have faced challenges in the recent races, with a tight competition on the grid. However, we have full faith in Checo and eagerly anticipate his comeback to the exceptional form and performance that he consistently demonstrates.

“Last year was an exceptional season, like finding a unicorn, and now we must put in the effort to defend our titles. However, we have full confidence in our lineup and the entire team, which is crucial as we anticipate a fiercely contested Championship this year.”

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Red Bull Carlos Sainz Christian Horner Sergio Perez