Sergio Perez’s Red Bull future could be safe as Horner weighs in

Horner opens up on Red Bull's 'barren spell' amid Mercedes dominance

Sergio Perez’s F1 future may be secure after Christian Horner gave his opinion on one of the Mexican’s main potential replacements. The team principal claimed Yuki Tsunoda was “not at that level” yet when pushed if the Japanese star would soon be Red Bull material.

It will come as a blow to the 22-year-old who is in his third season at Red Bull’s junior squad Alpha Tauri. According to Speedcafe, Horner said: “I don’t think he’s at that level yet, but he’s making great progress.

“We’re seeing that he’s maturing as a driver. He certainly has speed, and I think as he gains experience, I’m sure he’s going to become more rounded. He’s driven some strong races so far this year. We’re not short of options for the team.

“We have a commitment with both of our drivers (Max Verstappen and Perez) to the end of 2024. But the best thing he can do is perform at a very high level in the Alpha Tauri.”

It comes just weeks after outgoing AlphaTauri team boss Franz Tost suggested Tsunoda could be ready to make the leap to the top team by 2025.

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Horner’s comments are a boost for Perez whose current deal with the team expires next season as the ex-Force India star was expected to face competition for the seat. However, two race wins in 2023 could ensure the 33-year-old remains the star candidate to be Max Verstappen’s team-mate.

Horner has continually ruled out the return of Daniel Ricciardo to a race seat despite the ex-McLaren star eyeing a seat for 2024. Ahead of the new season, 49-year-old Horner said: “We certainly have no plans to utilise him other than in that third driver role, to combine with the commercial activities that he will be performing.”

However, Perez will still have to fend off the threat from Red Bull’s junior drivers with Liam Lawson pushing for an F1 drive after moving to Super Formula.

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Perez and Verstappen’s relationship could also play a major role with the pair clashing on several occasions. Ralf Schumacher feels this could be a major factor in Red Bull’s decision-making over the next 12 months.

He told Sky Deutschland: “There are many rumours circulating in the paddock about Perez’s future. Red Bull would have options.

“There’s Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo is still there and there are enough drivers on the market too. If there is a troubled relationship between Verstappen and Perez then it would make sense to part ways with the Mexican.”

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