Sergio Perez has announced his exit from Red Bull’s Formula One team on social media after four seasons as Max Verstappen’s teammate.
The Mexican endured a poor 2024 campaign – contributing just 152 points to Red Bull’s total of 589 – and finishing eighth in the drivers’ standings.
It is thought that Liam Lawson will replace Perez in a promotion from junior team RB, according to Sky Sports, although an official replacement is yet to be announced.
Perez failed to finish inside the top five for 18 straight races in 2024 and was largely responsible for Red Bull dropping down to third in in the constructors’ championship.
‘I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing Team,’ Perez posted.
‘Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together.
‘We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way.
‘A big thank you to every person in the Team from the management, engineers and mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes, I wish you all the best for the future.
‘It has also been an honour to race alongside Max as a teammate all these years and to share in our success.
‘A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember… Never give up.’
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner added: ‘I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons.
‘From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary Team player, helping us to two Constructors’ titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the Drivers’ championship.
‘His five wins, all on street circuits, were also a spectacular mark of his determination to always push to the limit.
‘While Checo will not race for the Team next season, he will always be an extremely popular Team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo.’
MORE: F1 2024 driver ratings: Max Verstappen champion but Lewis Hamilton suffers worst year ever
MORE: Oscar Piastri aims dig at Max Verstappen as Red Bull driver brands F1 stewards ‘stupid idiots’
MORE: F1 star Max Verstappen, 27, expecting first ‘miracle’ baby with girlfriend Kelly Piquet