Formula 1: Red Bull's Top Choices to Replace Perez as Verstappen's Teammate
- Conversations regarding a potential replacement for Sergio Perez have resurfaced following his recent run of form
- The Red Bull Racing driver has recorded 15 points in the last six Grand Prix he has entered through the 2024 season
- YEN.com.gh spotlights on possible options for the Austrian team, as reports of a mid-season replacement gradually surfaces
One of the most persistent debates in Formula 1 has resurfaced, as the motorsport world buzzes with discussions on the ideal teammate for Max Verstappen.
The Dutch driver has been on superb form despite the Red Bull's RB20 car not being the fastest currently on the grid.
However, the same cannot be said for his current teammate, Sergio Perez, who is under scrutiny following a series of poor results.
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The Mexican driver, who recently signed a two-year extension with the Milton Keynes team, has seen his early-season performance decline since the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
According to data from Auto Sports, the 33-year-old has only managed 15 championship points in his last six Grand Prix races, a figure lower than what Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg achieved in the last two Grand Prix.
Perez's poor form has sparked discussions about the possibility of his replacement before the end of the season. Red Bull's head of driver development, Helmut Marko, stated in a recent interview as reported by RacingNews365 that the team would reevaluate their drivers during the mid-season break, hinting at a potential change in the lineup.
With the possibility of replacing Perez on the table, YEN.com.gh highlights potential drivers Red Bull could consider to partner with Verstappen.
Possible replacements for Sergio Perez
Yuki Tsunoda
The young Japanese driver has been one of the best and most consistent on the 2024 grid so far. The Visa Cash App RB (VCARB) driver has consistently impressed in his four seasons at the Red Bull sister team, and the calls for the 24-year-old to make a step up and partner Verstappen have grown increasingly louder.
The Red Bull junior driver, through the current season, has amassed a total of 20 points.
Liam Lawson
The 22-year-old is another option being considered, according to Marko.
The New Zealander, who has made a strong impression in the Red Bull junior ranks, has garnered praise from key figures in the sport. His stint at Alpha Tauri in 2023, marked by several impressive performances, has positioned him as a leading contender to rejoin the F1 grid in 2025.
Carlos Sainz
Red Bull could potentially consider the Ferrari driver as an alternative to replace Perez.
The Spanish driver was formerly associated with the Red Bull junior team during its Toro Rosso days.
Sainz's contract with Ferrari expires at the end of the 2024 season, and he is currently without a confirmed seat for the following season.
Sainz's proven driving ability is unquestionable, and few doubt his potential to strengthen the current Red Bull lineup.
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However, the Milton Keynes team's leadership may ultimately decide against pursuing Sainz, particularly given his turbulent history with Verstappen.
Contenders for the Copa America Player of the Tournament
In another report, YEN.com.gh compiled a list of potential winners for the Copa America Player of the Tournament award.
Among the contenders are Colombia’s captain, James Rodriguez, and shot-stopper, Emiliano Martinez.
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Source: TUKO.co.ke
