Mexico. – Mexican driver Sergio “Checo” Pérez stated that sharing a team with the Dutchman Max Verstappen at Red Bull represented the most complex challenge within Formula One, describing it as “the most difficult job” in the top category of motorsport.
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In statements offered to the Cracks Podcast, hosted by investor Oswaldo Trava, Pérez explained that, although he was part of one of the most competitive teams in the championship, the project was clearly focused on Verstappen, a situation that generated constant pressure. “The team was built around Max. From the beginning I was aware of it. If I was faster, it became a problem and the atmosphere became very tense,” said the Mexican driver, recounting conversations held with the then team director, Christian Horner. Pérez detailed that during his time at Red Bull he faced complex scenarios, even when he managed to match or surpass his teammate’s pace. He indicated that, at certain times, the car became difficult to control, especially when competing directly with Verstappen for important results. Despite these circumstances, the Mexican accumulated outstanding results during his four seasons with the Austrian team, including a world runner-up, a third place in the overall standings, two fourth places and an eighth place in his last campaign, in 2024. Looking ahead, Pérez is preparing for a new stage in his career by joining as a driver for the Cadillac team, which will debut in Formula One starting in the 2026 season. The experienced racer assured that he will take advantage of everything learned at Red Bull to face this new challenge. “I have learned to value my work and to make the most of each situation, even in difficult contexts. That experience will be key in what comes next,” he concluded.
