Red Bull Racing revealed that the termination of the Mexican pilot’s contract Sergio Czech Pérez It involved a million-dollar cost, marking one of the most expensive moves in the recent history of Formula 1. According to statements from Helmut Markoteam advisor, Pérez’s dismissal had a significant economic and sporting impact.
“We are in Formula 1, so yes,” Marko responded when asked if the Mexican’s departure had cost millions of euros, although he avoided revealing exact figures. Czech Pérez, who had a contract with Red Bull until 2026, signed a renewal in the summer that eliminated performance clauses, strengthening his position against dismissal.
The decision to terminate Pérez’s contract was made to make way for the young driver Liam Lawsonwho will occupy the Mexican’s seat next season. The performance of Czech He fell noticeably in the 2024 season, contrasting with his performance in 2023, where he was runner-up in the world and won five races. This year he finished more than 280 points behind his teammate, the three-time world champion Max Verstappenin a championship dominated by the Dutch. On a collective level, Red Bull went from winning the constructors’ title to being surpassed by Ferrari y McLarenwith the latter taking the team championship.
Perez’s dismissal not only represented significant financial compensation for the driver, but also a loss of the financial prize linked to the constructors’ championship. Marko described some figures reported in the press as “absurd,” but noted that the final agreement was “acceptable for both parties.”
“Last year he was runner-up in the world, but it didn’t work out,” Marko acknowledged about Pérez’s 2024 season. “He was still waiting to find his best form, but finally he understood that the best thing was to separate paths.” Although he did not disclose the exact amount they had to pay to conclude the employment relationship, several experts have calculated that an estimate of USD 16 millionalthough this remains unconfirmed by either party.
The relationship between Pérez and Red Bull was marked by internal tensions and constant criticism from Marko towards the driver. Although the RB20 car was not the most competitive for much of the year, the Mexican’s performance fell below the team’s expectations, both in qualifying and in the race, which contributed to his exit.
At 34 years old, Pérez faces an uncertain future in Formula 1. According to Marko, the driver still has hopes of returning, although all the seats for 2025 are occupied. “If you stay on the sidelines for a year, as a veteran driver, there can always be new opportunities,” the advisor added.
Red Bull, for its part, begins 2025 with a new partner for Verstappen, with the goal of recovering the constructors’ title. However, the team will face the aftermath of one of the most costly decisions in its history, both in terms of financial and moral impact.
Czech Perezwho leaves Red Bull after four years with the team, could look for opportunities in other motorsport categories if he fails to make his return to Formula 1.
