F1 News: Daniel Ricciardo Tops Red Bull's List As Sergio Perez Replacement According To Insider

F1 reporter Lawrence Barretto reveals it is believed that Daniel Ricciardo is at the top of Red Bull's list as a potential Sergio Perez replacement.

Red Bull Racing appears to be contemplating a significant change in its driver lineup for the 2025 season. F1 journalist Lawrence Barretto's latest update suggests that Daniel Ricciardo is currently leading the charge as a potential replacement, with a need for him to return to peak form in the forthcoming season. This development comes amid ongoing rumours about Sergio Perez's future with the team, despite his existing contract through 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Perez's Uncertain Future: Despite having a contract with Red Bull until the end of the 2024 season, Sergio Perez is surrounded by rumours of an early exit, following a decline in performance post the 2023 Miami Grand Prix.
• Ricciardo in the Spotlight: Daniel Ricciardo is favoured as a top replacement for Perez, should Red Bull opt for a change. Ricciardo's potential is buoyed by expectations of AlphaTauri's competitive improvement this year.
• Performance Gap Concerns: Perez's gap behind teammate Max Verstappen, despite early season victories, raises questions about his long-term role at Red Bull Racing.

Initially, the 2023 season appeared promising for Sergio Perez, marked by triumphs at the Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix. However, the momentum seemed to falter post-Miami, leading to speculations about his future with Red Bull. 

Lawrence Barretto's recent comments in his Formula One column shine a light on the situation: 

"As it stands, it is believed Ricciardo tops senior management’s list of suitable replacements.

"The Australian will need to get back to his very best this year and with many insiders feeling his AlphaTauri team will make a big step forward this year in terms of competitiveness, there’s a strong chance he’ll deliver."

Despite these rumours, Red Bull team chief Christian Horner has consistently affirmed Perez's secure position in the team until the end of his current contract at the end of 2024, downplaying the likelihood of a premature replacement.