Red Bull Second Seat Curse Could Hit Sergio Perez as Max Verstappen’s F1 Wing Man Hits Familiar Slump

In one of the greatest comeback stories in recent years, Sergio Perez surprisingly snapped up the Red Bull seat when it looked like he was going to sit out of the F1 grid in 2021. Since then, he’s helped Max Verstappen win the WDC last season whereas he assisted Red Bull in their WCC winning campaign this year.

However, F1 commentator Jack Nicholls questions if the Mexican has been any better than his predecessors, Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly.

Sergio Perez had a decent second season with Red Bull this year. He nearly finished P2 and almost earned Red Bull’s first 1-2 in WDC in history. However, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc held off the Mexican in the final race to restrict Checo to P3.

At BBC’s F1: Chequered Flag podcast, Sam Bird stated Perez has certainly done the job that was required of him. He further added that he has fulfilled his role in every way. However, Jack Nicholls questioned, “My question is has Perez been better than an Albon or a Gasly this year?”

He continued, “At times yes. At times, not really noticeably but there have been times where he has been better. But I don’t think he’s been a complete revelation. I don’t think you’ll seeing much difference if you have Albon in that second car, is Albon finishing third in the championship? I think so.”

READ MORE: Papa Perez Warned to “Keep Out of It” Amid Max Verstappen and Checo’s Cold War

Checo will hope to challenge Max Verstappen for the title next season, but the Mexican might not find it easy. He’ll have to dig hard if he’s to remain competitive and keep his place against Ricciardo.

Daniel Ricciardo has a chance to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull according to Ralf Schumacher

After months of speculation, Daniel Ricciardo was finally announced as Red Bull’s third driver for next season. The move now poses a big threat to Sergio Perez, the threat of the Australian taking his seat. Moreover, Ralf Schumacher believes Sergio Perez would not be partnering with Max Verstappen next year.

Schumacher said quoted by Motorsport-total.com., “Not 100 percent sure that Perez will still be his teammate next year. I think Ricciardo has a good chance.”

He further said, “It must be behind the scenes very, very aggressive and I think Max wants a new combination. Max is the spearhead of Red Bull. The whole future is laid out for him until 2028.”

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Checo Perez will look to find inspiration from his 2020 season when he bagged the Red Bull seat. Moreover, after the recent feud with Verstappen in Interlagos, he might look to challenge the Dutchman next season. Will Sergio Perez keep his place against Danny Ric?