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Red Bull’s Marko Discusses Perez Contact and Lawson’s Racing Bulls Move
Senior Red Bull Racing consultant Helmut Marko has confirmed discussions with Sergio Perez after the Formula 1 team’s decision to replace Liam Lawson. The Mexican driver’s departure was announced at the end of the 2024 season, even though he had two years remaining on his contract, due to an unsatisfactory year with the Austrian team. Perez is currently without a drive for the current F1 season, but rumors suggest he might secure a seat with Cadillac F1 when they enter Formula 1 as the eleventh team in 2026. Despite a sometimes strained relationship during their four-year period together, Marko stated that a positive rapport exists following their recent talks.
Tequila Talk with Perez
Questioned by Motorsport.com if he contacted Perez after the driver change involving Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda at Racing Bulls, Marko confirmed the conversation. “Yes, we spoke about tequila,” he stated. Regarding suggestions that Perez might have felt “satisfaction”, Marko remarked, “I had a drink for him and he had one for me. He is involved in a tequila business.” Marko added that Perez promised to send him a bottle of his tequila brand, but only within Mexico.
Reasons Behind Lawson’s Transition to Racing Bulls
Marko further addressed Lawson’s move after only two races in Australia and China – a significantly shorter period compared to Perez, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Nyck de Vries. He dismissed the notion that the New Zealand driver’s switch to Racing Bulls constitutes a demotion, explaining the rationale behind the team’s decision.
“Firstly, it is not a demotion for him. He is moving to Racing Bulls, which possesses a highly competitive car, arguably easier to manage than the RB21,” Marko clarified. “The alteration was prompted by what I would describe as an unfortunate beginning. The cancellation of the third practice session in Australia marked the start of the issues. This understandably impacted Liam’s confidence. Regrettably, similar challenges arose in China, which also featured a sprint race, again limiting practice time.”
Tsunoda’s Strengths in Formula 1
Referring to Yuki Tsunoda, who is set to make his debut for Red Bull after 92 races with their sister team, Marko commented: “Conversely, Yuki — surprisingly perhaps — is demonstrating considerable strength in his fifth Formula 1 season now.”
“In terms of overall persona, he is physically stronger, exudes confidence, and has delivered two exceptional race performances.”
Tsunoda is scheduled to take the wheel of the RB21 alongside Max Verstappen at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, his home race, while Lawson is expected to partner with Isack Hadjar for another stint with Racing Bulls.