F1 journalist and former team principal Peter Windsor believes Sergio Perez’s contract with Red Bull has already been extended beyond the end of 2024, according to rumours he has heard in the paddock. If those rumours are true, it will end with Carlos Sainz’s move there. when he leaves Ferrari at the end of the season.
The Spaniard took advantage of Max Verstappen’s terminal braking challenge at the Australian Grand Prix by dominating the rest of the box (adding teammate Charles Leclerc) en route to his third F1 career win. However, with Lewis Hamilton replacing him at Ferrari next season. , is left for no reason.
Sainz’s performances since joining the Scuderia have more than justified education at the more sensible team, however, with his Ferrari career coming to an end and his former McLaren team drawing the two drivers in long-term combination, his only characteristic in the brain is Red Bull. and Mercedes. Now, the step to the first one is complicated.
Of the rumours he heard in Melbourne, Windsor said: “I’ve heard in the paddock, from quite reliable sources, that Sergio has already renewed his contract for next year. In that case, you’d say, well, what was the rush? »
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He then added: “And if that’s the case, well, then that door is clearly closed for Carlos Sainz. Which leaves him with the only option that works for him would be a plug-in year at Mercedes alongside George Russell. “
“Which wouldn’t be a comfortable year for Carlos. Just get in the car, George Russell in the other car, all a little pressure-laden and challenging. And that’s with a contract to sign with Audi in 2026. “
If true, it would be a huge vote of confidence for Perez, who last year was subject to constant speculation about whether he would drive for Red Bull beyond the end of the 2023 season, let alone beyond the end of his contract in 2023-2024. .
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The Mexican has achieved back-to-back P2 finishes in the first two races of the season, putting Red Bull in the spotlight as they look to repeat last year’s feat of securing the two most sensible positions in the Drivers’ Championship.
For Sainz, this poses an attractive dilemma. Although Mercedes is the most prestigious decision it can make, the team has followed a stable downward trajectory in the era of ground effect. A switch to Sauber or Aston Martin would be riskier, but it could pay off when the 2026 regulation adjustments come into effect.
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