Sergio Perez departs Red Bull Racing early

Formula One driver Sergio Perez has departed Red Bull Racing with immediate effect, following a mutual agreement announced. The Mexican driver's exit comes two years before his contract's intended completion in 2026.

During his four-year tenure with the Milton Keynes-based team from 2021, Perez contributed to two Constructors' Championship titles in 2022 and 2023, securing five race victories. However, his performance declined significantly in 2024, finishing eighth in the Drivers' Championship with a 285-point gap behind teammate and world champion Max Verstappen.

In his farewell statement, Perez expressed gratitude for his time with Red Bull, highlighting the team's achievements and his experience racing alongside Verstappen. "Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together," Perez stated.

Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged Perez's contributions, particularly praising his role as a team player and his five street circuit victories. "From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two Constructors' titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the Drivers' championship," Horner said.

New Zealand's Liam Lawson, 22, is reportedly set to replace Perez at Red Bull. Lawson, who competed in six races in 2024 and five in 2023, is expected to be promoted from Racing Bulls. Before his departure, Perez voiced concerns about the challenges a young driver would face as Verstappen's teammate, stating, "Being team-mates with Max at Red Bull as a young driver, I wouldn't like to be in those shoes."

The team has indicated that official announcements regarding their 2025 driver lineup will be made soon. Racing Bulls is expected to pair Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda with Formula 2 runner-up Isack Hadjar for the upcoming season.