After Pérez's extension, Red Bull and Verstappen in search of stability in Canada

Is Red Bull will you finally be able to find some internal calm? Since the start of the year, the Austrian team has been shaken by business (Horner), departures (Newey) and rumors surrounding the future of its two drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez. If the first is “secure” with a long-term contract until 2028, the second was still in danger since his contract was due to expire at the end of 2024. That was before the Mexican's extension for two additional seasons, made official on Tuesday.

“As in all situations, you always have to go through a process which is not always very pleasant, underlines Sergio Pérez. So it's a good thing to eliminate that distraction for the team and myself so I can focus on performance. I think it's the best thing to do for our team. »

Pérez reassured, Red Bull calmed, Verstappen revived?

From now on, the two Red Bull seats are locked for the next two years, enough to approach the future with more serenity. And serenity, the Austrian team needs it today. Over the last six Grands Prix, the world champions have only won three times: if the score remains admirable, we are far from the undivided domination of 2023!

Heckled by Ferrari et McLaren, Christian Horner's team needs to regain its status by first finding a certain balance internally. Max Verstappen hopes that Sergio Pérez's extension takes pressure off his shoulders and those of his team. “It’s great news that Checo has signed. I'm happy he's staying, we've always worked well and it brings stability to the team. »

Some rumors in the corridors attribute Pérez's extension to Verstappen: the Dutchman would appreciate the company of the Mexican, who does not contest his status as leader within the Austrian team. It doesn't matter for Sergio Pérez, who now wants to be totally focused on his season, he who remains on two poor performances at Imola and Monaco.

“I think the best thing to do is to close the visor and concentrate on my work, to do the best for myself, for my career, confides the 34-year-old pilot. There is only one thing that matters to me, and that is the end of my career. I appreciate everyone having their opinion, but in the end, I'm here to do the best I can for my career and I'm happy with what I've accomplished. »

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