Brundle ROASTS Perez as F1 pundit admits Red Bull situation now ‘critical’
Popularity expert Martin Brundle has warned that Sergio Perez must improve his performance in the five remaining races of 2023 or risk becoming a “passenger” for Red Bull.
It’s been an unhappy time for Perez, with the Mexican driver’s F1 future in doubt as pressure mounts recently.
Despite starting the season with two wins in the first four races, a string of poor results compared to his record champion teammate Max Verstappen has left the 33-year-old worried about his future at Red Bull.
Perez has made it clear he will remain part of the team in 2024, but there are several potential candidates to replace him, including the return of Daniel Ricciardo, AlphaTauri star Yuki Tsunoda and impressive New Zealander Liam Lawson.
When the Australian replaced Ricardo after he was injured.
Given his poor form in a disappointing car like the RB19, there is no doubt that Perez can be a threat.
Brundle, a former F1 driver and Sky Sports pundit, stressed the “decisive” nature of the final five races of the season for Perez to retain his place.
“Red Bull will not be able to carry passengers until 2024 if they are unwell,” Brundle said.
βAnd to be honest, I can’t imagine Sergio would want to drive this car (if he did).
“So the next few races are very important for him mentally and to make sure that Red Bull can do this without losing their way.”
Perez is second
Perez’s title challenge may have been short-lived at the start of the season, but the Mexican can still produce outstanding performances for Red Bull.
The 2023 constructors’ champion has never finished the same season with the drivers ranked first and second in the standings, with Perez 30 points clear of Hamilton in the race for second place.
As a result, the chance to make history still rests in the hands of Perez and Red Bull.
Brundle admitted that Perez’s expectation from the team was always to finish second, although he could not compete with Verstappen.
“Sergio Perez and Red Bull want the same thing,” added Brundle.
They want him to get back to form, and if he can’t beat Max, they want him to at least get a couple of second places and take second at the World Championships.