F1 News: Christian Horner Wants Sergio Perez "Firing On All Cylinders" In 2024 To Save Red Bull Seat
In just a couple of months, the 2024 season is all set to begin with a staggering 24-race calendar, and Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has outlined expectations for driver Sergio Perez, who he wants "firing on all cylinders" next year if he aims to secure a contract extension for 2025 and beyond.
The 2023 season saw the Mexican driver face severe criticism for not being able to get the same performance out of the RB19 than his teammate Max Verstappen. Not to forget the collisions he made on track with other cars, that almost caused him to lose the second spot in the Drivers' Standings to Lewis Hamilton.
Perez revealed that it was immensely pressurizing and difficult to be Verstappen's teammate. He also faced significant challenges in his personal life as a result of the demanding Formula 1 schedule. The situation ultimately led him to seek mental help to cope with the pressure.
As his contract with the Milton Keynes outfit expires after the 2024 season, his seat is being eyed by several drivers on and off the paddock, the closest being Daniel Ricciardo, who once revealed that it was his dream to retire as a Red Bull driver.
Fortunately for Perez, he has another season to prove himself, and team boss Horner has been supportive as he understands the drivers' plight but, underscores the clarity of expectations. Now, it is up to Perez to match the expectations if he wants to extend his Red Bull contract beyond 2024.
When asked if 2024 was Perez's most important season with Red Bull, Horner revealed on Sky F1's end-of-season review:
“It is, but Checo [Sergio Perez] works best when he’s under pressure, that’s what I’ve seen with him in his time with us.
“You know, he’s in the seat, it’s his seat to lose and I think there’s nothing preset for 2025, and we need him firing on all cylinders at 24 races next year to be scooping up the points, delivering race wins.
“Because for sure if it becomes more competitive, we can’t afford to have a big offset between him and Max.
“He’s aware of that, he knows he needs to deliver.”
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