In a surprising turn of events, Sergio “Checo” Pérez, the renowned Mexican Formula 1 driver, has announced his return to the Red Bull Racing team—not as a driver, but as a brand ambassador and participant in select show runs during the 2025 season. This development comes after Pérez and Red Bull mutually agreed to part ways at the conclusion of the 2024 season, following a challenging year for the veteran driver.
Pérez joined Red Bull Racing in 2021 and played a pivotal role in securing consecutive Constructors’ Championship titles in 2022 and 2023. He also achieved personal milestones, including five Grand Prix victories and a runner-up finish in the 2023 Drivers’ Championship. However, the 2024 season proved difficult, with Pérez finishing eighth in the standings and failing to secure a win, leading to intensified scrutiny over his position within the team.
Despite these challenges, both Pérez and Red Bull have expressed mutual respect and gratitude. Christian Horner, Red Bull’s Team Principal, lauded Pérez’s contributions, stating, “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 one-two finish in the Drivers’ Championship.”
Pérez, reflecting on his tenure with the team, remarked, “Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience, and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had … .”
Following his departure, Pérez indicated plans to take a sabbatical from Formula 1, emphasizing a desire to spend time with his family and consider future opportunities. He mentioned, “For now, my priority in the months ahead is to have fun, do what I haven’t been able to, travel, be with my family… In the next six months, I’ll make a decision on what I want for the next step of my career.”
In a recent interview, Horner hinted at Pérez’s continued association with Red Bull, stating that while Pérez has decided to take a break from active racing, he will remain involved with the brand and the team. Horner noted, “He’ll still be involved with the brand and with the team but he’s stepping back from driving duties moving forward.”
This announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans and the broader motorsport community, who are eager to see Pérez continue his association with Formula 1 in this new capacity. His participation in show runs and ambassadorial activities is anticipated to bolster Red Bull’s promotional efforts and maintain Pérez’s presence in the sport.
As the 2025 season approaches, Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Liam Lawson will step into the race seat alongside Max Verstappen. Lawson, a promising talent from New Zealand, is expected to bring fresh energy to the team as they aim to reclaim their position at the pinnacle of Formula 1.
Pérez’s transition from driver to brand ambassador underscores the evolving roles experienced drivers can play within the sport, contributing their expertise and star power beyond the cockpit. Fans will undoubtedly look forward to seeing “Checo” continue to make his mark in the Formula 1 world in this new and exciting role.
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