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.
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 2024Sergio Perez has struggled to match the performances of Max Verstappen
Perez needs 'good season'
Surprisingly, though, the veteran advisor has now made a statement suggesting openness to renewing the contract with the Mexican driver.
"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.
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