Red Bull unfazed amid Audi's driver market pressure
Red Bull insists it will take its time in deciding Max Verstappen's 2025 teammate, refusing to be swayed by pressure from Audi's early driver market moves for its 2026 F1 entry.
As the 2024 Formula 1 season unfolds, Red Bull Racing finds itself at the center of a brewing driver market storm, fueled by Audi's impending entry into the sport in 2026.
The Milton Keynes-based team, however, remains unfazed, determined to make their decision regarding Max Verstappen's teammate for 2025 on their own terms.
Sergio Perez's position in limbo
The brewing uncertainty surrounds Sergio Perez's contract, which expires at the end of the current season.
While the Mexican driver has shown improved form and currently sits second in the drivers' standings, Red Bull is adopting a wait-and-see approach, closely monitoring his consistency over the long haul.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, dismissed the early driver market frenzy as "ridiculous", asserting that the team will not "jump into this game" themselves.
Instead, they plan to make the "best choice" at a later stage, unbowed by external pressures.
Audi's disruptive influence
Marko acknowledged Audi's role in stirring the driver market pot, commenting,
"I have heard that Audi is making pressure, but it is a little bit strange for a newcomer to make pressure on the driver market."
The German manufacturer's pursuit of securing top talent for its 2026 debut appears to be a driving force behind the early movements.
Potential candidates and complications
While promoting RB's Yuki Tsunoda remains an internal option, Red Bull is also evaluating more experienced candidates.
Alex Albon's Williams contract prevents a 2025 move, but Ferrari's Carlos Sainz emerges as a serious contender, given his recent race-winning form.
However, Sainz's situation is further complicated by interest from Aston Martin and Audi itself.
Factions within Aston Martin reportedly seek to secure Sainz's services for 2025, while Audi has long identified the Spaniard as a potential target for its 2026 debut.
Patience and prudence prevail
Despite the mounting pressures, Red Bull remains steadfast in its approach.
Christian Horner, the team principal, reiterated that Perez's position is contingent on his continued strong performances, emphasizing that Red Bull is "not in a huge rush" to make a decision.
As the driver market heats up, Red Bull's measured stance serves as a reminder of their commitment to strategic decision-making, prioritizing the team's long-term success over reactionary moves driven by external forces.
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