Sergio Perez, the Red Bull driver, is currently facing mounting pressure due to a lackluster performance.
Sergio Perez is hopeful of extending his stay with Red Bull and has revealed talks with his current employers are now underway.
The driver from Mexico is among a few who have not secured a contract for 2025. However, he has expressed his strong desire to continue racing with the team based in Milton Keynes, where he has been competing since the beginning of 2021.
Sergio Perez: Nothing has been signed yet
Perez received his most recent contract extension with Red Bull during the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix, which took place two years ago this weekend. However, there is currently no sign of him being offered a new deal for 2025.
Red Bull currently enjoys a privileged position regarding their driver choice. They have the advantage of having former Red Bull junior, Carlos Sainz, as a strong and available candidate. Sainz, who was labeled as Red Bull’s “nemesis” by Christian Horner after his victory in the Australian GP last month, is a potential option for them.
Perez must deliver impressive performances throughout the season in order to secure a new contract. With the exception of a slightly off-track weekend at Imola, he has generally performed as expected in his role as a support driver for Max Verstappen in the second RB20.
During a media interview in Monaco on Thursday, Perez discussed his desire to quickly finalize a deal, which would allow him to focus on the remainder of the season. This included speaking with PlanetF1.com.
He said it is not similar to a percentage or anything along those lines.
In my opinion, the level of closeness between two parties is irrelevant until a formal agreement is signed. Therefore, the fact that nothing has been signed yet means that it holds no significance.
Regardless, the main focus at the moment is not on my contract, but rather on this weekend.
After winning the 2022 race in Monte Carlo just before his new deal was announced, Perez emphasized the significance of qualifying on the streets. He revealed that his current focus lies primarily on this aspect, rather than being concerned about his future.
He stated that he is aware that everything depends on Saturday. If they do not secure a spot on the front row, their chances of winning the race will be nonexistent.
Therefore, it is crucial to secure a spot in either the first or second row at the very least.
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After a disappointing weekend at Imola, where Perez finished eighth, almost a minute behind Verstappen, despite starting from 11th on the grid, the Mexican driver emphasized the importance of swiftly recovering from such setbacks.
He said, “I believe Christian [Horner] is fully informed about the current situation. We’ve had a fantastic season so far, leading up to Imola.”
“That was quite a challenge, and that concludes it.”
In my current season, my priority is to minimize those unfavorable days. By doing so, I am confident that this year will be exceptional because I believe I am in excellent shape. I am genuinely content and fiercely competitive with my car.
“We can absolutely maintain the momentum without any obstacles.”
As the weekend arrived, media reports indicated that Perez had rejected a one-year contract extension offer from Red Bull. This decision reflects his desire for a more secure long-term commitment regarding his future.
When asked if he would consider accepting a one-year deal if his current employer only offers that, Perez evaded giving a clear response.
He stated that his contract is not his main focus for this weekend.
I am aware that the negotiations are currently in progress.
“At a certain moment, we will inform you, and you will be the initial person to be informed! However, presently, the crucial aspect is to avoid contemplating two years, one year, or three years in advance.”
“My complete attention is on Saturday, as it pertains to this weekend.”
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