Sergio Perez releases statement after brutal Red Bull axe as replacement already mooted

Perez, who joined Red Bull in 2021, endured a torrid campaign that culminated in back-to-back DNFs and a failure to secure a top-five finish in his final 18 races.

His poor form proved costly for the Milton Keynes-based outfit, as Red Bull surrendered their constructors' championship title to McLaren, ultimately finishing third behind Ferrari.

Despite starting the season promisingly with four podiums in the first five races, Perez's form dramatically declined after May's Miami Grand Prix.

The Mexican driver has not won a race since April 2023, while during the same period teammate Verstappen claimed 25 victories.

His struggles were particularly evident in qualifying, where he failed to progress from Q1 seven times during the season.

A humiliating last-place finish at his home race in Mexico City, following another Q1 elimination, epitomised his difficult year.

His final race in Abu Dhabi ended in disappointment as he was forced to retire on the first lap after a collision with Valtteri Bottas.

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The disparity in performance between the two Red Bull drivers became too significant for the team to overlook, particularly given the impact on their constructors' championship aspirations.

Speaking about his departure, Perez said: "I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull. We broke records and reached remarkable milestones."

The Mexican will be remembered for his significant contributions to the team, including five race victories and his crucial defensive drive against Lewis Hamilton in the 2021 Abu Dhabi finale.

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Red Bull team principal Christian Horner paid tribute to Perez, describing him as an "extraordinary team player."

"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 1-2 finish in the drivers' championship," Horner said.

Perez was also highly valued for his marketing appeal in the Mexican market, though this wasn't enough to save his seat.

New Zealander Liam Lawson is expected to replace Perez as Max Verstappen's teammate for the 2025 season.

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The 22-year-old has competed in just 11 Formula One grands prix, having been drafted in to Red Bull's sister team RB midway through recent seasons.

Lawson impressed during his limited appearances, with The Independent understanding he will be unveiled as Perez's replacement later this week.

The young driver has been chosen ahead of Yuki Tsunoda, who has spent four years at Red Bull's sister team.

With no open seat available on the grid for 2025, Perez's future in Formula One remains uncertain, though it is anticipated he will take up an ambassadorial role with Red Bull.