Sergio Perez to stay at Red Bull through 2026

Patchy performances last season weren’t enough to stop the 34-year-old from finishing second in the drivers’ standings, and the Mexican has got off to a strong start this season, with four podium finishes, including second place at the first two races of the season.

Perez said: “I am really happy to commit my future to this great team. It is a challenge like no other racing for Oracle Red Bull Racing, both on track and off track.

“I am delighted to be staying here to continue our journey together and contribute to this team’s great history for two more years. Being part of the team is an immense challenge and one I love.

“We have a great challenge this year, and I have full trust in the whole team that the future is bright here, and I am excited to be part of it.

“I want to thank everyone for all the trust they are putting in me, it is a lot and I want to pay it back with excellent results on track, and off track. I think we have a lot of work to do; we have a lot more championships to win together.”

Continuity was a significant factor in keeping the Mexican on Red Bull’s books as the team gears up for rule changes and new-generation cars in 2026.

Horner said: “Continuity and stability are important for the team, and both Checo and Max are a successful and robust partnership, securing our first ever one-two finish for the team in the championship last year. 

“Checo has had a strong start to 2024 with second places in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Japan and then his podium in China. The past few races have been tough, there is convergence on the grid, but we are confident in Checo and look forward to his return to proven form and performance that we so often see. 

“Last year was a unicorn season and we will need to work hard to retain our titles, but we are assured in our line-up and with the team as a whole, which is imperative in what is shaping up to be a close-fought championship this year.”

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