A number of drivers have competed alongside Max Verstappen, but only Sergio Perez was able to handle the heat of the Dutchman. The Mexican has always been a team player and always puts the team’s interest above his. And ever since Daniel Ricciardo came into the picture, there were rumors that the team may reverse its mind on Checo’s case. But, with a recent statement by Eddie Jordan, Ricciardo’s comeback hope appears to be dashed.

Sergio Perez joined the team soon after Red Bull fired Alex Albon. After that time, the Mexican driver assisted Max Verstappen to win his first title in 2021. Last year, he also displayed some breathtaking maneuvers and contributed to the team capturing its first constructor’s championship in nine years. Yet, despite having a good relationship with Verstappen for the past two years, there were some indications of friction between the two drivers at the last round of season 2022, at the Brazilian Grand Prix, but Christian Horner managed to keep the rising tension at bay.

Nevertheless, since Ricciardo re-joined Red Bull, there have been rising rumors that the Mexican driver may be sacked in order to create room for Ricciardo, who would compete with Verstappen. But now, according to Jordon, a former F1 team owner, Perez’s position with the Red Bull squad ensures Ricciardo won’t pose a danger to his spot.

Jordan told OLBG, “ There is no chance that Checo will be replaced by Daniel. Checo is a sweetheart on that team. Don’t forget what Checo does. He’s a brilliant wing for Max, he’s strong and he can win when he has to win or when he has the chance. Although there was a brief fight between the two.”

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While some of Perez’s supporters are concerned about the additional pressure, the Mexican Driver may be under since Ricciardo has joined the team, the driver himself has remained relatively relaxed. Besides, Perez intends to make the most of the Honey badger’s inclusion in the squad.

Sergio Perez wants to take the advantage of Daniel Ricciardo’s inclusion in the Squad

Since Ricciardo confirmed his move to Red Bull, F1 analysts, and commentators have been constantly speculating that the honey badger might swoop in and replace Perez. Nonetheless, Perez has maintained his composure throughout the hiring process and has instead said that Ricciardo’s addition to the squad is wonderful.

As per Fox Sports, he said, “We are in a fantastic place to have Daniel, such an experienced driver who knows Red Bull from his time here. Although the car is very different from when he was here, it’s still something he knows pretty well.”

Ricciardo’s role in the team will be to help the team with the simulator and having such an experienced driver will certainly help the team grow. Citing that, Checo further added, “We’re really lucky to take advantage of him and the work he’s going to be doing.” While talking about the pressure he said, ” In terms of pressure, it’s always there it doesn’t matter if Daniel is here, or anyone. I’m a Red Bull driver, and when you’re a Red Bull driver you have to deliver. It’s no different to any other year.”

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Red Bull has complete faith in Checo, as seen by Perez’s extension of his contract for an additional two years. However, given the team’s past, it’s hard to say how Red Bull will respond if Checo doesn’t perform this year. What do you think about it?