Red Bull Racing today confirms that Sergio Perez will join the Team and race alongside Max Verstappen in the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship. And Current driver Alex Albon remains an important member of the Team and takes on the role of Red Bull Racing Test and Reserve Driver with a key focus on 2022 development, simulator work and tyre testing.
Sergio made his Grand Prix debut in 2011 and since then has become one of the sport’s most consistent performers and tenacious racers. Sergio’s recent run of form and victory at the Sakhir Grand Prix made him the favoured choice to join Red Bull Racing, initially on a one year contract.
Red Bull is wise to offer just one year contract to Mexican, they are keeping options open for 2022 season while rooting for title challenge in 2021. From Perez perspective, he got one year in one of the top teams in F1 to prove his worth. If he can take fight on Max Verstappen in 2021, he will probably secure longer contract in Formula 1.
Red Bull Racing Team Principal, Christian Horner:
“Having taken our time to evaluate all the relevant data and performances we have decided that Sergio is the right driver to partner Max for 2021.”
“Alex is a valued member of the Team and we thought long and hard about this decision. Having taken our time to evaluate all the relevant data and performances we have decided that Sergio is the right driver to partner Max for 2021 and look forward to welcoming him to Red Bull Racing.
“Alex remains an important part of our Team as Test and Reserve Driver with a key focus on 2022 development and we would like to thank him for his hard work and contribution.”
Sergio Perez :
“The chance to race for a championship contending team is something I have been hoping for since I joined F1.”
“I am incredibly grateful to Red Bull for giving me the opportunity to race for Red Bull Racing in 2021. The chance to race for a championship contending team is something I have been hoping for since I joined Formula One and it will be a proud moment to step onto the grid in Red Bull colours alongside Max.
“You can be sure that I will give next season my full focus. The Team has the same winning mentality as me and I know I am here to perform and help the Team fight for another title.”
[…] Vettel is indeed true, his old team, Red Bull hired Perez for 2021. […]
[…] if Verstappen and his new team-mate Sergio Perez can fight for the title, Mateschitz told Speedweek: “Yes. Next year will be a lot closer. […]