As Sergio Perez faces growing uncertainty about his future at Red Bull, Jos Verstappen, father of reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen, has made a surprising U-turn. While previously advocating for Liam Lawson to join Red Bull and challenge Max, Jos now suggests that Perez can reclaim his form with a more “neutral” car setup.
This shift in opinion comes as Red Bull battles to stay in contention for the Constructors’ Championship ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix.
Perez’s Struggles and Red Bull’s Predicament
Sergio Perez has endured a difficult season, failing to secure a podium finish since April’s Chinese Grand Prix. With Red Bull currently sitting third in the Constructors’ standings, 53 points behind leaders McLaren, the pressure is mounting.
The team must close the gap to within 45 points after Qatar to remain in the title hunt going into the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Max Verstappen has carried the team’s hopes, contributing a staggering 403 points compared to Perez’s 152.
Jos Verstappen’s Initial Endorsement of Liam Lawson
Jos Verstappen initially suggested that Red Bull should give VCARB’s Liam Lawson a shot at partnering Max in 2025. Speaking to Viaplay, Jos said:
“It seems logical to me that [Lawson] is ready to step up… It’s better if there is someone who is competitive and pushes Max forward a bit. That always helps.”
Lawson has impressed during his outings, making him a potential candidate for the Red Bull seat should the team opt for a change.
Backing Perez with Car Adjustments
In a recent interview with Joe Radio, Jos shifted his stance, now advocating for Perez to remain Max’s teammate, provided Red Bull delivers a car that suits both drivers equally. Jos stated:
“If Red Bull builds a car that is neutral and that everyone can get on with, then I think Checo will be there at the front again.”
He emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with Red Bull’s management but expressed confidence that Perez has the capability to perform at the highest level under the right conditions.
Perez’s Red Bull Journey and Future Prospects
Since joining Red Bull in 2021, Perez has claimed five of his six career victories, playing a vital role in the team’s recent successes. However, his struggles in 2023 have raised questions about his ability to remain competitive alongside Max Verstappen.
The upcoming races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi will likely be pivotal for Perez’s future, as Red Bull will assess his performance before making a decision for the 2025 season.
What’s Next for Red Bull and Perez?
As Red Bull fights to stay in the Constructors’ Championship race, the team faces critical decisions about its driver lineup and car development. Jos Verstappen’s comments highlight the importance of creating a more balanced car that allows both drivers to excel.
Key Questions:
- Can Sergio Perez reclaim his form with a neutral car setup?
- Will Red Bull prioritize stability or opt for a fresh face like Liam Lawson in 2025?
The Qatar Grand Prix will provide crucial insights into Perez’s potential to bounce back and help Red Bull secure vital points in their championship pursuit.
