P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Christian Horner has pointed at a crucial aspect of Sergio Perez’s ability that separates him from previous axed Red Bull drivers.
Red Bull is known for being demanding of their drivers, with many passing through their ranks but not meeting expectations. Examples include Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon, who have managed to bounce back and establish F1 careers. This approach has led Red Bull to the top of the Formula 1 world, with star driver Max Verstappen winning the past three championships. Sergio Perez, whose performance declined significantly this year, possesses a crucial attribute that has allowed him to remain at Red Bull: psychological strength. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner emphasizes that being Verstappen’s teammate is challenging and has broken others in the past. Perez’s mental strength to cope with Verstappen’s brilliance is what has enabled him to maintain his position in the second car. However, Horner also highlights that Perez needs to improve his qualifying performance. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his contract, Perez’s immediate future at Red Bull seems secure, but it will come under pressure again in the upcoming season. Daniel Ricciardo is heavily linked with a return to Red Bull to replace Perez, as he is currently driving for AlphaTauri.
