Red Bull Dispels Rumours Regarding Perez’s F1 Position

Despite a disappointing streak for the Mexican racer, which saw him eliminated from Q2 in the Austrian Grand Prix due to three individual track limits offences, Red Bull maintains that Perez’s F1 seat is not at risk.

Rumours began to circulate of a potential F1 return for Daniel Ricciardo following the announcement of an impending test run in an RB19 after the British Grand Prix. The Australian’s involvement in Red Bull’s Pirelli tyre test has fueled speculation of his possible return.

These speculations gained further traction when Red Bull motorsport head, Helmut Marko, shared with Austrian TV last week his intentions to use the test to gauge Ricciardo’s ‘real position’ amidst questions about Perez’s performance.

However, Red Bull team leader Christian Horner has quickly refuted the suggestion of Perez’s position being in danger. On being asked by Sky about Ricciardo potentially filling a future vacancy at Red Bull, Horner stated: “No, Checo is secure. The entire team supports him fully. Any discussion about Checo’s replacement is simply incorrect.”

Though Horner voiced some frustration after the qualifiers at the Red Bull Ring due to Perez’s unnecessary risks in Q2, he remained positive about Perez showing encouraging speed. “The highest pressure he faces is the one he puts on himself,” stated Horner. “He was well-paced here, and he was highly competitive in practice one. His lap times were just a fraction off Max’s.

Horner’s disappointment was evident when he stated, “This is the annoying part. It’s frustrating to see that he’s capable. It’s a real pity, because this could have been a turning point for him.”

Team frustration is now heightened with two Ferraris closing in, compared to a single Red Bull, due to Perez’s compromised position.

Ricciardo’s run at Silverstone has also intensified the scrutiny on AlphaTauri’s Nyck de Vries, whose season so far has been less than stellar.

Marko’s comments have sparked discussions that de Vries needs to step up his game to ensure his place for the rest of the season. However, Horner dismissed these as overstated, stating, “There’s currently no intention to replace Nyck de Vries. These drivers need a little time. We do have a junior program and Daniel is a part of our team as well.”

“He’ll be testing the Red Bull car post the Silverstone race. It will be interesting to see his current standing, his level of confidence, and his performance,” Horner added.

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More about Sergio Perez’s F1 Seat

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• More on AlphaTauri’s Nyck de Vries