Perez facing Red Bull contract U-TURN after latest announcement
Liam Lawson’s arrival at RB could spark a shock U-turn from Red Bull over Sergio Perez’s contract, according to a top Formula 1 pundit.The Red Bull star signed a new deal with the team earlier this season, agreeing to stay with the reigning constructors’ champions until the end of 2026.However, his dismal form this season has raised questions over whether he is the right man to partner team-mate Max Verstappen going forward. ‘Bad news for Perez’s career’Perez has collected a meagre 41 points over his previous 12 outings, putting him eighth in the standings with just six races remaining.Speculation over the 34-year-old’s future first arose during the summer break, with then Visa Cash App RB star Daniel Ricciardo linked with his seat.However, that move failed to materialise, with the Australian’s own run of poor results prompting RB to drop him in favour of Liam Lawson following the Singapore Grand Prix.With McLaren having overhauled Red Bull at the top of the order, the pressure has been ramped up on Perez to pick up performances or face up to the prospect of being ditched next season.Writing in his weekly BBC Sport column, Andrew Benson discussed the future of both Perez and Lawson, suggesting that the latter can’t be ruled out as an option for Red Bull if he can impress over the coming months – despite Checo’s contract running until 2026.
