Red Bull’s Sergio Perez.
It has been another busy day in the world of F1 news, with another piece falling into place in the driver market and more coming out about Esteban Ocon’s upcoming Alpine departure.
When the drivers arrive in Canada, there will be numerous topics of discussion, including the recent acquisition of the fastest uncontracted car for 2025. Let’s delve into the headlines.
F1 news: Sergio Perez stays on with Red Bull as more Esteban Ocon details emerge
Sergio Perez retains his Red Bull drive
To begin with, Red Bull has made an official announcement regarding Sergio Perez’s contract extension with the team. The agreement secures his presence until 2026 alongside the current World Champions.
Many drivers had their eyes on that cockpit, considering it as the most desirable position in this year’s driver market. However, the Mexican driver has proven himself sufficiently to secure his spot with the team for another two years.
By a stroke of luck, his previous contract extension coincided with the Monaco Grand Prix in 2022. Therefore, it seems highly likely that we will witness the same headline after Monaco 2026, don’t you think?
Read more: Red Bull driver rumours end with new TWO-year deal for Sergio Perez
Christian Horner explains reasons behind new Perez deal
The team principal of Red Bull commended Perez for his exceptional performances while being a part of Red Bull. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of “continuity and stability” within the team to ensure their continued progress.
“He said that Checo’s performance in 2024 has been impressive, securing second places in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Japan, followed by a podium finish in China.”
“We have faced challenging races lately, with a competitive grid. However, we have full confidence in Checo and eagerly anticipate his return to the outstanding form and performance that he consistently showcases.”
“Our previous year was a remarkable unicorn season, and in order to keep our titles, we must put in diligent effort. However, we have confidence in our lineup and the unity of our team, which is crucial in the upcoming closely contested Championship.”
Read more: Christian Horner explains Sergio Perez contract decision as door closes on Carlos Sainz
Details on Esteban Ocon and Monaco team orders emerge
Esteban Ocon, who is currently without a drive for next season, is set to part ways with Alpine at the end of 2024. F1 journalist Lawrence Barretto revealed that despite the team’s clear instructions to follow in Monaco, both drivers failed to adhere to the team orders.
He wrote on the official F1 website about the team’s instructions: “I have been informed that the message was reiterated before the race on Sunday. So, it is understandable that Famin was irritated when Ocon disregarded that directive and boldly attempted a maneuver on Gasly during the first lap at Portier, resulting in damage to both cars and leading to his own withdrawal from the race.”
Despite the significance of that particular moment, it is reported by sources that there had been an ongoing discussion about Ocon’s future for several months. The recent incident mentioned was just one aspect of the overall argument against renewing his contract.
Read more: ‘Latest argument not to renew’ – Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly ‘repeatedly told’ of Monaco team orders
Kevin Magnussen race ban incoming?
Although Kevin Magnussen is only two penalty points away from a race ban and will not see any points dropping from his Super Licence for a while, Ralf Schumacher did not hold back in expressing his negative opinion of the Haas driver’s performance this season.
Although Magnussen is acknowledged as a good person outside the cockpit, his performance this season has not reflected the same level of excellence.
Read more: ‘Gone’ verdict delivered as Kevin Magnussen courts F1 race ban
Pierre Gasly asked about F1 future beyond 2024
In Monaco, Pierre Gasly was questioned by various media outlets, including PlanetF1.com, about his current situation, as one Alpine seat has been confirmed to be available by the end of the year.
Gasly stated that he didn’t want to elaborate too much to avoid any misinterpretation, but he acknowledged the ongoing situation with the driver market. He further mentioned his preference for competing for higher positions and suggested that the future actions regarding the car concepts would be determined based on the findings from the wind tunnel in the upcoming weeks and months.
Read more: Pierre Gasly quizzed on his F1 future at Alpine with team-mate seat now vacant
