The 2024 Formula 1 season for Sergio Pérez has been a rollercoaster of underwhelming results, mounting speculation and intense scrutiny. While his teammate, Max Verstappen, continues to lead the championship, Pérez finds himself fighting to stay competitive, slipping to eighth in the drivers’ standings.
With ongoing rumors about his possible departure from Red Bull Racing, the Mexican driver is firm in his plans for the future. Pérez has admitted that he briefly considered retirement:
“These past six months, I did think about it,” he said in an interview with DAZN España. “But it took me three seconds to make the decision. In the end, it would be the easy route after so many years to quit and kind of give up. I would never have forgiven myself.”
He Doesn’t Want to Follow Alonso’s Path
Unlike some of his peers, such as Fernando Alonso, who continues to race into his 40s, Pérez is clear that he doesn’t see himself staying in Formula 1 for much longer. He told DAZN España, published on Sept. 22:
“For now, I have a two-year contract. Two years is a long time, but I know the end is coming closer and closer. I don’t see myself racing here like Fernando [Alonso]. I admire him for everything he does at his age.
“It’s not that I wouldn’t enjoy it, but more because I have young children and I want to spend much more time with them.
“With 24 races a year, the calendar is long, but I will be there for at least two more years. However, I don’t see myself in Formula 1 for much longer.”
Rumor: Sergio Pérez Retiring at the Mexican GP?
F1 journalist Joe Saward suggested that Red Bull and Pérez might announce a planned exit during the Mexico City Grand Prix, allowing the veteran driver a “gentler exit” instead of a forced departure.
However, for now, Pérez seems committed to fighting through his current struggles and finishing the season on a strong note. Yet, with Red Bull reportedly considering its future lineup and evaluating potential replacements, the 34-year-old driver’s days with the team may be numbered, regardless of his determination.
“I want to end my career when I want to and not when someone tells me. That’s the most important thing, getting to the point where I can decide my future.
“For now, I’m very motivated, I want very much to continue in F1,” added Pérez. “I enjoy it. You mostly enjoy the good moments, but you also learn to enjoy the bad moments,” he said.
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