P1racenews AI automatic summary:
A veteran F1 driver was recently left without a race seat for the current season – but as he targets a comeback, he has been defended by a sport legend Rubens Barrichello.
Rubens Barrichello expressed his support for Sergio Perez after Perez left Red Bull. Perez had a challenging final season with the team, leading to his exit at the end of the 2024 season. Liam Lawson replaced Perez but was quickly replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after just two rounds. Despite improved results, Tsunoda has also faced difficulties alongside Max Verstappen. Barrichello admitted he misjudged Perez and now defends him, acknowledging Perez’s success in the tough role of being Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull. Perez is rumored to potentially return to the grid in 2026, with Cadillac and Alpine being mentioned as possible destinations.
