Sergio Perez from Red Bull is seen alongside Helmut Marko during the Dutch Grand Prix.
Helmut Marko is adamant “all” F1 contracts have exit clauses, not just Sergio Perez’s, but confirmed Red Bull will make a decision on their line-up in August.
Despite signing Perez to a new two-year extension in May, Red Bull is said to be reconsidering their lineup due to the Mexican driver’s recent decline in performance, not only for the upcoming 2025 season but also beyond.
Helmut Marko confirms summer break deadline for Red Bull
Perez made a solid start to this year’s championship with three runner-up results behind Verstappen in the opening four races followed by a podium in China.
Nevertheless, his celebratory champagne on April 21st marked the end of an era.
Perez’s recent struggles have significantly hindered Red Bull’s chances of defending the Constructors’ Championship, as he has failed to reach the podium for seven consecutive races and only managed to finish in the top six once.
Red Bull currently holds a 71-point advantage over their closest competitors, McLaren and Mercedes, in terms of dual car performance. This lead is significantly smaller compared to mid-2023, when Red Bull had a commanding lead of 229 points over their nearest rival.
There is speculation that Perez may be dropped sooner rather than later, as sources close to the situation have informed PlanetF1.com that his contract with Red Bull includes a clause permitting a driver swap during the summer break.
While Red Bull have not confirmed the exact details of the clause, reports suggest it is dependent on his deficit to Verstappen in the Drivers’ Championship. If it is greater than 100 points, which it is at 137 today, Red Bull can demote him.
Marko was asked about details of the clause by grandprix247.com.
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He asserted that every Formula 1 contract includes provisions for termination, typically based on performance or, let’s say, particularly for the top drivers. As previously stated, there will be an assessment during the summer break, after which a decision will be made.
After deciding to drop Perez, the team must then determine who will take his place.
While Daniel Ricciardo has been considered as the top candidate to replace Perez this season, Red Bull has other alternatives to consider.
In addition to considering Yuki Tsunoda, there have been recent suggestions of having Liam Lawson join Verstappen in the RB20 car instead of taking Ricciardo’s VCARB seat.
However, Marko refused to reveal his preferred member among the trio.
“Initially, it is crucial to note that Lawson is scheduled to undergo testing at Silverstone this Thursday. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that after two additional races, Lawson will have further opportunities to showcase his skills. Additionally, we cannot overlook Yuki Tusnoda, who has been performing exceptionally.”
As Red Bull deliberates on what and who will follow, Dutch pundit Allard Kalff expresses concerns that any second driver at Red Bull will face difficulties due to the team’s Formula 1 cars being specifically tailored to Verstappen’s driving technique.
“He informed Viaplay that we are currently facing a situation where the car is once again dysfunctional, leaving the second driver in a difficult position. It becomes inconsequential who takes the wheel.”
No matter who you place in that car, be it Albon, Gasly, Pérez, or Ricciardo, none of them make any significant impact or difference.
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