Finding a fast second driver has always been a problem faced by Red Bull Racing, the team has replaced multiple drivers in the past few seasons in search of a driver who can match Max Verstappens’ performance in a Red Bull car. Current Red Bull driver, Sergio Perez finds himself in the same hot seat due to his inconsistent results in recent races.
There are rumors suggesting uncertainty about the Mexican drivers’ future with the team, this has turned many drivers to the potential empty seat at Red Bull. Alpine driver, Esteban Ocon has hinted at his interest in Sergio Perez’s seat at Red Bull and confidently claimed that he possesses the ability to outperform Max Verstappen in the same car.
Esteban Ocon weighs in on battle vs Max Verstappen
During their teenage years, Verstappen and Ocon were prominent adversaries. They engaged in a fierce rivalry for the Formula 3 championship, which was won by Ocon. The duo found themselves in the same track again at the 2018 Brazilian GP when a failed attempt by Ocon to unlap himself led to both drivers spinning out and Max losing the lead.
Max would then confront Ocon at the FIA weighbridge about the collision earlier and shove the French driver, Max would receive community service for his actions by the FIA.
The Alpine driver has recently shared his interest in a Red Bull seat, claiming to be able to match Verstappens’ performance in an equal car. Ocon is confident in his ability to fight for the title in a faster car,
“I see myself fighting with Verstappen for a world title, yes. If we have the same car, sure! Max is doing great now, he’s dominant with Red Bull. But I don’t care who the other driver is. I want to fight for the championship and I’ve always believed in myself.” Said Ocon to DAZN.
Will Sergio Perez leave Red Bull?
There are indications from reports that suggest Sergio Perez’s future with Red Bull is uncertain due to a decline in his recent performance. Despite winning two races out of the first four in the 2023 season, the Mexican driver has lost a considerable amount of edge. His 6th-place finish at the Canadian GP over the past weekend prompted a subtle remark from his stablemate Max Verstappen.
Red Bulls’ advisor Helmut Marko did little to downplay the speculation that Perez might be replaced by reserve driver Daniel Ricciardo. If Perez does fail to produce desired results for the team, the driver may find himself without a seat in the 2024 season.
Do you think Perez can retain his position in Red Bull for the 2024 season? Comment your thoughts below.
