'Thank you, Checo': Red Bull finally confirm Sergio Perez sacking
Red Bull has finally confirmed the worst-kept secret in Formula 1 - Sergio Perez will not drive for the team in 2025.
The team confirmed early on Thursday morning (AEDT) it had parted ways with the Mexican, despite only signing a two-year contract extension in June.
The announcement ends speculation that first began in July, only weeks after his contract extension had been signed.
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"I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team," Perez said.
Sergio Perez looks on after crashing at the start during the Monaco Grand Prix. Clive Rose via Getty Images
"Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way.
"A big thank you to every person in the team from the management, engineers and mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes, I wish you all the best for the future.
"It has also been an honour to race alongside Max as a team mate all these years and to share in our success. A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We'll meet again soon. And remember… never give up."
Liam Lawson (right) is the favourite to replace Perez. Getty
Perez won five races for the team, all on street circuits. His last race win for the team came back in Azerbaijan in April 2023.
"I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons," team principal Christian Horner said.
"From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors' titles and to our first one-two finish in the drivers' championship.
"His five wins, all on street circuits, were also a spectacular mark of his determination to always push to the limit.
Perez at the US Grand Prix. Chris Graythen via Getty Images
"While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo."
Endured a nightmare 2024 season. He finished on the podium in four of the first six races, but then didn't so much as finish in the top five for the rest of the season.
He scored only two points in the last five races of the season. His horror run in form undoubtedly cost Red Bull the contructors' championship, which also cost the team's employees several thousand dollars in Christmas bonuses.
Red Bull said confirmation of its 2025 lineup would be made "in due course", although it's believed Kiwi ace Liam Lawson is the favourite to fill the seat.
