Sergio Perez is enduring an extended slump, jeopardizing Red Bull’s World Title hope. During the summer break, an announcement of Checo’s replacement was expected. However, Christian Horner & Co. decided to stick with the Mexican racer for the remainder of 2025. This retention baffled the F1 experts, as the RBR talent pool is overflowing. Therefore, they have endless options to replace the struggling Perez.
On the other hand, some reports suggested that the F1 media company Liberty Media had influenced the decision. However, Helmut Marko dismissed these allegations, claiming stability to be the reason. Despite Red Bull’s faith in Perez, his slump continued. The Mexican racer came close to a podium finish in Azerbaijan. However, his stint ended with a crash, hurting RBR’s Constructor’s Cup chances. Thus, the calls for replacing Perez resurfaced after his lackluster form. However, the F1 pundit believes swapping RBR’s second seat is “unthinkable” for the squad.
Red Bull Trapped In A Bind As Replacing Sergio Perez Seems “Unthinkable” Due To Sponsorship Ties
Sergio Perez has a unique ability to draw money into the F1 world. His brand value is so significant that the team had to assess potential financial losses before making any decision. F1 pundit Peter Windsor thinks the same, as he opened up about Red Bull’s dilemma on F1 Maximaal. The journalist feels it is “unthinkable” for the team to fire Checo before Mexican GP. The home hero represents the face of F1 in Mexico, and the fan base would dwindle if he were not a part of the lineup. Moreover, Windsor warned RBR of the Mexican sponsor’s money, which would be pulled back if Checo is removed.
Further, Windsor explained the importance of sponsor money for Christian Horner. While Red Bull might be willing to sacrifice some sponsors, it would be a significant loss for Horner. Subsequently, Windsor made a bold admission, claiming Perez to be the best pay driver in F1. He feels Checo alone can bring thirty to forty million dollars every year. Therefore, the team could replace him if it is monetarily self-sufficient. The former Williams team manager emphasized Perez’s brand value and decent on-track pace. Consequently, if the Milton Keynes-based outfit is willing to try a fresh face, it would cost millions of dollars.
Former F1 Team Manager Feels Perez’s Brand Value Is Irreplaceable
Therefore, Windsor believes the only way to replace Perez is to find a quick driver with equivalent financial support. He also claimed the Bulls could score more points and defend the world title by finding a better driver than Checo. However, he also accepted that they may find a quicker driver, but finding someone with a similar brand value is next to impossible. “There are many good drivers available, but how much money do they bring with them? Not really much,” he concluded. As of now, Perez is eighth in the Driver’s standings, while Red Bull is trailing Mclaren by 41 points in the Constructor’s Cup. With six rounds to go, it would be interesting to see whether RBR would take the financial risk to find a better alternative.