Sergio Perez Open To Formula One Return For The Right Project After Time Off

Former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez is contemplating a return to Formula One, but only if an appealing opportunity arises. He plans to take at least six months off first. Perez and Red Bull parted ways in December after a disappointing season, despite having signed a contract extension until 2026 in June. His early 2024 performance included four podiums in five races, but he failed to secure another top-three finish for the rest of the season.

Throughout the remaining 18 races of 2024, Perez retired four times and finished outside the top seven on 13 occasions. After being replaced by Liam Lawson at Red Bull, Perez intends to evaluate his future options while spending quality time with his family over the next six months. "Honestly, I don't know. It's too soon to have an answer," Perez said when asked about racing in 2025.

Perez expressed uncertainty about his future in racing, stating, "Everything happened very quickly at the end of the season, so I didn't expect it." He added that he is currently enjoying life and is excited about what lies ahead. "For sure, if I receive a good, interesting project, then I'll definitely consider it and think about it," he mentioned.

For now, Perez's focus is on enjoying life outside of racing. He plans to travel and spend time with his family during this break. In the coming months, he will decide on the next step for his career. "In the next six months, I'll make a decision on what I want for the next step of my career," he stated.

Christian Horner, Red Bull's team principal, revealed that Perez chose to take a break from F1 after debuting in 2011 and competing for 14 consecutive seasons. Reflecting on his release from Red Bull's contract, Perez said it felt incredible and hard to describe but noted feeling different as a person.

Perez finished eighth in the drivers' championship in 2025—his lowest ranking since placing tenth with Racing Point in 2019. Previously finishing third in 2022 and second in 2023 alongside Max Verstappen's title wins with Red Bull highlighted his competitive prowess.

Perez emphasised that any return to F1 would depend solely on what brings him happiness. "I'll come back to F1 if it's what's going to make me the happiest," he stated. His focus remains on pursuing what will bring him joy in the years ahead.