Sergio Perez has left Red Bull after four seasons with the team (Image: Getty)
has confirmed his departure from after four years with the team.
The Mexican has spoken out after a disastrous season in which he finished eighth in the Drivers’ Championship and was partly responsible for dropping to third in the team standings. Fellow man won the world title with almost three times as many points as his team-mate.
have now parted ways with Perez who, in a lengthy statement posted to , said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team.
“Driving for has been an unforgettable experience, and I’ll always cherish the success we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way.
“A big thank you to every person in the team from management, engineers and mechanics; catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes. I wish you all the best for the future.
“It’s also been an honour to race alongside Max as a team-mate all these years and to share in our success. A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember… never give up!”
Team principal offered his own words of respect for the 34-year-old, hailing him as an ‘exceptional team player’.
Perez’s exit paves the way for Liam Lawson to take up one of the most high-pressure positions in sport, as Verstappen’s team-mate. The New Zealander, 22, has only raced in 11 Grands Prix for ‘s sister team, .
Lawson’s team-mate in 2024, , was also in the frame for the promotion but Horner and co have evidently been impressed by the potential shown on the other side of the garage.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Liam Lawson is set to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull (Image: Getty)
Isack Hadjar, a French-Algerian 20-year-old who joined ‘s junior programme two years ago, is expected to take Lawson’s place at .
Perez collected 285 points in 2023 to complete a one-two in the Constructors’ Championship, and he played an instrumental role in Verstappen’s blockbuster world title win in 2021 by slowing down in Abu Dhabi.
He signed a new deal in June which would have taken him until the end of next season. The contract reportedly included performance clauses allowing to terminate the agreement in case they were not met.
It is understood that Perez took the decision to leave after a frustrating year, although began looking at alternatives weeks ago.
The Guadalajara-born racer began his F1 career with Sauber in 2011 and spent a season with before beginning a successful eight-year stint with Force India, which later became known as Racing Point.
With Perez stranded at the end of 2020 and staring at the possibility of having no seat for the following season, offered him a lifeline. Five of his six career Grand Prix wins came alongside Verstappen, including a Monaco triumph in 2022.
Perez will not be on the grid in 2025, and it remains to be seen whether his departure spells the end of his F1 career.