Sergio Pérez, the Mexican Formula 1 driver, has recently expressed a shift in his perspective regarding his teammates. In 2017, during his tenure at Force India, Pérez regarded Nico Hülkenberg as his most formidable teammate. Hülkenberg, known for his consistent performances and technical acumen, was a benchmark for Pérez during their collaboration.
However, Pérez’s subsequent partnership with Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing has led him to reassess this view. Verstappen’s exceptional talent and relentless pursuit of excellence have redefined Pérez’s understanding of a top-tier teammate. Verstappen’s dominance in the sport, highlighted by multiple World Championships and a series of record-breaking performances, has set a new standard in Formula 1.
Pérez’s acknowledgment of Verstappen’s prowess comes amid significant changes in his career. After joining Red Bull in 2021 and contributing to the team’s successes, including securing Constructors’ Championships in 2022 and 2023, Pérez’s performance in the 2024 season did not meet expectations. Finishing eighth in the Drivers’ Championship without a race victory, especially when compared to Verstappen’s nine wins and fourth consecutive title, underscored the disparity between the teammates.
This performance gap led to a mutual agreement for Pérez to depart from Red Bull, despite having two years remaining on his contract. Team Principal Christian Horner noted that efforts to boost Pérez’s confidence were unsuccessful, resulting in a significant points deficit that impacted the team’s overall performance.
Reflecting on his time with Verstappen, Pérez now considers the Dutch driver as the most outstanding teammate of his career. This recognition not only highlights Verstappen’s exceptional abilities but also underscores the high standards within top-tier Formula 1 teams. Pérez’s experience with Verstappen has provided him with a deeper appreciation of the qualities that define a world-class driver, influencing his perspective as he contemplates the next steps in his racing career.