Red Bull’s Sergio Perez narrowly missed out on pole position for the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix, trailing behind teammate Max Verstappen by a mere 0.066 seconds in a Red Bull 1-2 result.
As Perez’s contract expires at the end of the year, speculation arose that Daniel Ricciardo might replace him. However, Ricciardo’s struggles against Yuki Tsunoda, combined with other factors like Carlos Sainz’s availability and instability at Red Bull, have left the team’s lineup uncertain.
With Mercedes potentially targeting Verstappen, both Red Bull seats could be open, prompting Perez to up his game, especially after finishing behind in previous Red Bull 1-2s.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko suggested that Perez’s performance might be motivated by the impending contract talks. Speaking to Sky Germany, Marko acknowledged the significance of Perez’s improved showing, especially considering the contract negotiations.
While discussions about the 2025 driver lineup have progressed, Marko emphasized the need for more time before reaching a final decision.
Marko noted that the situation regarding driver decisions has accelerated this year, with Alonso and Mercedes aiming to resolve their 2025 plans by summer.
He mentioned Carlos Sainz as another potential candidate for Red Bull, should the team consider bringing him back into the fold.
Despite heightened scrutiny due to rumors about leaks regarding an investigation into team principal Christian Horner, Marko affirmed that he and Horner would follow their usual procedure in determining the driver lineup.
Their collaborative efforts are under scrutiny following speculation about Marko’s involvement in leaking information regarding the investigation into Horner’s alleged misconduct.
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