Perez signs two-year contract extension with Red Bull
Mexican Sergio Perez will race for Red Bull until 2026 after signing a two-year contract extension, the Formula One champions announced Tuesday.
Perez, 34, finished second overall to triple world champion teammate Max Verstappen last season, the first time the team had a one-two finish, but is currently fifth after eight races.
The announcement, made ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal this weekend, put an end to speculation about Verstappen's partner for next year.
It also ended Australian Daniel Ricciardo's chances of returning to the senior team after a comeback with sister team RB, and it closed another door for Ferrari's Carlos Sainz, who is looking for a seat in 2025.
Perez, who joined the team at the end of 2020, described racing for Red Bull as "a challenge like no other" on and off the track.
"I am really happy to commit my future to this great team," said 'Checo'.
"I am delighted to be staying here to continue our journey together and contribute to this team’s great history for two more years. Being part of the team is an immense challenge, and one I love."
"We have a great challenge this year and I have full trust in the whole team that the future is bright here and I am excited to be part of it."
Formula One's engine rules will change in 2026, with Red Bull developing their own powertrain and forming a new partnership with Ford.
Last year, Red Bull had the most dominant season in the sport's history, winning 21 of 22 races, with Verstappen winning 19.
Verstappen has won five races this season, but Red Bull has been embroiled in controversy, with team boss Christian Horner cleared of allegations of misconduct against a female employee, which he denied.
Horner has also faced opposition from Verstappen's father, Jos, who stated in March that Red Bull would 'explode' if the boss remained, and divisions have emerged among the team's shareholders.
Adrian Newey, the star designer, also announced last month that he was leaving next year.
"Now is an important time to confirm our line-up for 2025 and we are very pleased to continue working together with Checo," said Horner, who stressed the importance of continuity and stability.
"The past few races have been tough, there is convergence on the grid, but we are confident in Checo and look forward to his return to proven form and performance, that we so often see," added Horner.
"Last year was a unicorn season and we will need to work hard to retain our titles, but we are assured in our line up and with the team as a whole, which is imperative in what is shaping up to be a close fought championship this year."
Perez, who has won six races in his Formula One career, has finished second three times this season and third in China. He crashed out of the last race in Monaco.
SportsLigue