RB star labels potential Perez replacement 'WEIRD'

A top Formula 1 driver has opened up on his prospects of earning a seat at Red Bull next year.

Given their substantial advantage over Ferrari at the midway point of the season, the reigning constructors' champions are on track to win their third consecutive title.

F1 HEADLINES: Hamilton gives powerful statement as FIERCE Verstappen rival finally apologises

READ MORE: Rumoured RB shakeup could DESTROY Ricciardo career comeback

However, the Milton Keynes-based outfit have not had it all their own way in 2024, as drivers from Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes have all secured race wins.

Three-time world champion Max Verstappen continues to lead the drivers' standings, but even he has struggled to assert his dominance at times, with Lando Norris emerging as a shock challenger for his title in recent months.

Despite his uncharacteristically up-and-down campaign, few would bet against the Dutchman pulling away from the competition once again as he chases a fourth championship success in as many seasons.

Tsunoda wants Red Bull seat

His team-mate Sergio Perez, on the other hand, is facing an entirely different challenge.

The Mexican has been a reliable backup to Verstappen since the pair teamed up in 2021, but his performances this season have dipped considerably, leading to speculation that his seat is under threat.

Having only collected 15 points in his previous six outings, Perez has come under significant criticism from pundits as well as his own team boss, Christian Horner.

Red Bull and Visa Cash App RB reserve driver Liam Lawson has been tipped to replace Perez should the axe fall on the 34-year-old, and he was given another opportunity to impress during FP1 at the British Grand Prix.

Current RB star Yuki Tsunoda is a big fan of the Kiwi having raced alongside him for a short spell last year, but believes he would be the wrong choice should Red Bull look to make a change.

READ MORE: Sacked F1 star handed 'SPECIAL' seat ahead of Hungarian GP

Tsunoda has accumulated 20 points in 2024, and was recently rewarded with a new contract given his impressive progress.

The Japanese driver hopes his displays have been enough to convince Red Bull bosses that he is best-placed to make the step up if required.

“If they choose Liam, that would be weird," he told reporters ahead of the Hungarian GP weekend.

“I mean, for sure, Liam did a really good job when he drove in the team, but I think I did more than that.

“And we’ll see how it goes. In the end, they know how to manage the drivers.”

READ MORE: Newey reveals key Horner relationship change

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

EXCLUSIVE: Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari at the Nurburgring? What comes next after Verstappen success

• 1 hour ago

WhatsApp groups for taxis in the sky: How F1 drivers travel

• 16 minutes ago

Toto Wolff accused of having a Kimi Antonelli 'complex' by former F1 boss

• 2 hours ago

Max Verstappen F1 reign could end at 2026 Japanese Grand Prix

• 3 hours ago

Max Verstappen struck by Daniel Ricciardo curse

• Yesterday 22:42

Max Verstappen announces 'natural next step' away from F1

• Yesterday 19:51