Red Bull has extended Sergio Perez’s contract that sees him remain alongside Max Verstappen for the 2022 Formula 1 season.
Perez became the first driver outside of the Red Bull fold to drive for the team since 2007, replacing Alexander Albon following his struggles in 2020.
The Mexican has played a crucial role in Red Bull’s title bid, scoring six top-six finishes, including a victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in just his sixth outing for the Austrian-owned outfit.
“Checo is a highly respected Team member and his experience and race-craft are invaluable as we fight for the Constructors’ Championship,” said Red Bull boss Christian Horner.
“His integration into the wider Team has been seamless and we have been impressed by his performances during the first half of the season which demonstrate what he’s capable of in our car.
“Next year we move into a new era of Formula One with completely revised regulations and cars, and with over 200 races and a decade of experience under his belt, Checo will play an integral role in helping the Team navigate this transition and maximise the RB18.
“Our current attention is on ending the 2021 season as strongly as possible and we look forward to seeing Checo build on a first successful season with the Team.”
Perez currently sits fifth in the drivers’ championship just nine points adrift of third-placed Lando Norris heading into the second half of the season.
His move to Red Bull marked the first time Perez had driven for a championship-winning team since his sole campaign at McLaren in 2013, but he believes the partnership has clicked and hopes to play a part in helping Red Bull win its first championship for eight years.
“I’m really happy to be continuing with a great team like Red Bull into the new era of Formula One and it’s a great opportunity for me.” Perez said.
“Everyone starts from zero next year with the new regulations, so my only goal is to go all the way to the top with Red Bull. It always takes time to get on top of everything when you join a new team but things have worked well this season and I really enjoy being a part of the Red Bull family.
“We’ve been working hard to deliver results so it’s great to see the Team have faith in me for the future. We have so much more to achieve together and we still have a great challenge on our hands this season so I really hope we can finish the year on a high and carry that momentum into 2022.”
Perez’s announcement is likely to lead to Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda both being confirmed at AlphaTauri for next year, with team principal Franz Tost previously stating he sees no reason to change its driver line-up.
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