F1 news: Helmut Marko speaks out Sergio Perez's precarious position

helmut marko, sergio perez, red bull — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

Marko speaks out Perez's precarious position

Sergio Perez's future is far from certain beyond 2024

Cal Gaunt

Sunday 11 February 2024 17:57

Sergio Perez will almost certainly remain under pressure for his Red Bull seat throughout the season, with his contract set to expire and his 2023 season a disappointing one, but Helmut Marko has hinted at a reason for optimism.

Both Marko and Christian Horner spent much of last year being asked about the Mexican driver, and both broadly defended him - although one more vociferously than the other.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Perez's position, Marko and Horner have both previously hinted at the possibility of extending his tenure beyond the upcoming 2024 season.

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Marko, known for his straightforward critiques, had previously mentioned contenders like Daniel Ricciardo or Liam Lawson for Perez's seat after 2025.

Helmut Marko believes Sergio Perez can continue at Red Bull beyond 2024

Sergio Perez has struggled to match the performances of Max Verstappen

Perez needs 'good season'

"If Checo has a good season, it is quite possible that the lineup in 2025 will also consist of Verstappen and Perez," Marko told sport.de.

The definition of a successful season for Perez with Red Bull is still uncertain, but it is anticipated to involve frequent high-grid qualifications and a pattern of securing consistent runner-up positions behind Max Verstappen, occasionally facing sporadic challenges.

Red Bull Daniel Ricciardo Sergio Perez Liam Lawson Helmut Marko