Sergio Perez’s Red Bull exit confirmed before 2025

Sergio Perez's tenure with Red Bull's Formula 1 team is set to conclude before Christmas, sources have indicated. Following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Perez has been in negotiations regarding his future, considering either remaining as an ambassador for Red Bull in 2025 or severing ties with the company entirely.

An ambassadorial role would involve marketing appearances and show runs, duties outlined in the two-year contract extension Perez signed in May. Unlike typical team-specific agreements, Red Bull's contracts tether drivers to the broader company framework.

The decision regarding Perez's future is anticipated to be disclosed this week. It remains uncertain if Red Bull has imposed a deadline for Perez to determine his path.

Sources confirm that Red Bull has already chosen Liam Lawson as Perez's successor. The New Zealander is expected to rise to the main team after completing 11 races over two stints at Red Bull's junior team in 2023 and 2024. This move will see Formula 2 runner-up Isack Hadjar step into Lawson's former role alongside Yuki Tsunoda, who is poised for a fifth consecutive season with the junior team.

Perez's future beyond this pivotal decision remains ambiguous. Regardless of the path he selects, Perez will not be competing in Formula 1 in 2025, as all 20 seats across 10 teams are already occupied. However, should Perez opt to part ways with Red Bull entirely, it could open up opportunities for him to race in different categories next season.

One possibility could involve General Motors' incoming Cadillac team, which has agreed in principle to join the grid in 2026 as an 11th squad. This new venture could potentially provide an avenue for the Mexican driver to make a return to the pinnacle of motorsport.

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