P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marko suggests Perez’s improved F1 form because 2025 contract at stake
Sergio Perez narrowly missed pole position at the Japanese Grand Prix to teammate Max Verstappen, with only 0.066 seconds separating them in a Red Bull 1-2 result. Despite Perez’s contract ending this year, it was anticipated that Daniel Ricciardo might replace him, but Ricciardo has faced challenges against Yuki Tsunoda. The uncertainty in Red Bull’s lineup is further complicated by the availability of Carlos Sainz, Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton switching to Ferrari, potentially impacting Verstappen. Red Bull’s advisor Helmut Marko hinted that Perez’s performance might be influenced by ongoing contract negotiations, emphasizing the significance of next year’s contracts being at stake earlier than usual. The decision-making process for the 2025 lineup is progressing, with Marko mentioning Sainz as a possible consideration within the Red Bull team. Discussions between Marko and team principal Christian Horner suggest they will follow their usual procedure, but their relationship is being scrutinized amid rumors of Marko leaking information about an investigation into Horner’s conduct.
