Is Checo Perez Leaving Red Bull? Who is Checo Perez?

Is Checo Perez Leaving Red Bull?

There's been a lot of speculation and rumors regarding Sergio Perez possibly departing from Red Bull following the 2024 Formula 1 season. Perez has entered into a two-year extension with Red Bull, which indicates his tenure with the team will continue till 2024. Christian Horner, the head of the Red Bull team, has assured that Perez won't be leaving before his contract term concludes and that he will continue to race for the team until the end of next year. Horner also hinted that if Perez performs up to their standards, they might look into extending his contract past 2024.

Despite there being talks about possible backup drivers for Perez, like Pierre Gasly and Liam Lawson, it's crucial to understand that these talks do not rule out Perez staying with Red Bull in 2024.

Who is Checo Perez?

Sergio Perez, also recognized as Checo, is a Mexican driver who currently competes in Formula One for Red Bull Racing. He was born on January 26, 1990, in Guadalajara, Mexico. Perez has had a successful journey in Formula One, earning him the title of Mexico's most accomplished Formula One driver.

He entered the Formula One scene in 2011 with the Sauber team, sharing the cockpit with drivers like Pastor Maldonado, Paul di Resta, and Jrme d'Ambrosio. Throughout his career, Perez has raced for various teams, including McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and his current team, Red Bull Racing. Beyond his racing career, Perez owns a powerboat racing team called SP11 Team Mexico. In November 2012, he launched the Checo Perez Foundation, dedicated to supporting orphans and children battling cancer.

Perez is celebrated for his skill in extending tire life, a trait that was on display in his first Formula One race, where he secured a 7th-place finish after only one pit stop for new tires. He has also achieved significant milestones in Formula One, with six wins, 30 podium finishes, and three pole positions as of the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C56cqQuuf_J/

Career

Sergio Perez has built a successful career in Formula One, marking his place with notable accomplishments and significant achievements.

Debut and Early Years:

In 2011, Perez stepped into the world of Formula One with the Sauber team, marking the beginning of his journey. His debut season saw him make a strong impression, achieving notable results, including a runner-up spot at the Malaysian Grand Prix. This feat placed him as the youngest Mexican driver to land a podium position in Formula One history at that point.

McLaren Role:

In 2013, Perez transitioned to McLaren, among the most esteemed teams in Formula One. He teamed up with Jenson Button and navigated a challenging year, yet still clinched three podium finishes.

Force India and Racing Point:

Following his tenure with McLaren, Perez joined the Force India team (which later became Racing Point). His seven-year tenure with the club from 2014 to 2020 highlighted his reliability and strategic driving, establishing him as a go-to driver among his peers.

Rally to Victory:

In 2020, Perez clinched his maiden Formula One win at the Sakhir Grand Prix, driving for Racing Point. His victory was the culmination of a stellar performance that saw him make an impressive comeback from the back of the grid. Throughout his career, Perez has secured six victories and has consistently appeared on the podium, as demonstrated by his 30th-place finish at the 2023 Spanish Grand Prix.

Racing for Red Bull:

In 2021, Perez signed with Red Bull Racing alongside Max Verstappen, entering a new phase of his career where he aimed to win races and contend for the championship. His contributions have been instrumental in the team's success in winning the Constructors' Championship.

Tire Strategy:

Perez is celebrated for his adeptness at controlling tire wear during races, which has often led him to adopt innovative strategies, often at the expense of his rivals. This tactical advantage has been especially pronounced in races characterized by tire wear issues.

Wife

Sergio Perez is married to Carola Martinez. Their love story has mostly stayed private, only becoming public when Martinez was expecting their first child. They celebrated the birth of their son, Sergio Jr., in December 2017, and also welcomed their daughter, Carlota. Perez and Martinez have a tight-knit family, and their kids sometimes make special appearances at Perez's Formula One races. Carola Martinez tends to avoid the public eye and has preferred to stay away from the limelight as the spouse of a renowned Formula One driver. In June 2018, Perez and Martinez tied the knot, and they have been living a joyful family life since then. They have recently shared the exciting news of expecting their fourth child, marking another addition to their expanding family.

Networth

As of 2024, Sergio Perez's total assets are projected to be close to $30 million. Throughout his Formula One career, he has accumulated a substantial income from both his base salary and sponsorships. Perez is recognized for his expertise in mechanics and his steady approach to racing, which has played a key role in his achievements on the circuit and his appeal to fans and sponsors outside of racing.