Red Bull are set to announce Verstappen's teammate for the 2025 season
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Rumors
- Nicole Mulder
There are still several Formula 1 seats yet to have been filled for 2025. This includes one of the most desirable spots on the grid, next to Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing. The reigning world champions are said to have already made the decision: Sergio Perez will keep his seat, provided he drops this key demand.
'Contract for Perez is ready'
Red Bull has repeatedly stated that Perez is the favourite to retain his seat. Both Helmut Marko and Christian Horner named the Mexican as the main contender, especially given his strong start to the season. Perez hasn't performed as well in recent races, but the RB20 has not been as quick as Red Bull expected. His recent performances would therefore not play a role, says Horner.
Still, the parties cannot seem to agree on the length of the contract. Perez has openly expressed a desire for a multi-year contract, while Red Bull prefers a one-year contract extension. According to Formu1a.uno, the team has already made the choice: Perez will keep his seat, on this condition.
According to the Italian site, Perez must drop his demand for a two-year contract. That would be the only thing still standing in the way of a contract extension. In fact, the new contract would already be ready and the deal would be announced soon - provided Perez agrees to a one-year contract extension only. That would mean the battle for the seat next to Verstappen could erupt again in 2026 when the new engine regulations come into force. Red Bull are content with Perez's role in the team, and his renewal may be imminent.