SUMMARY
- Lawrence Barretto suggests Daniel Ricciardo could replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull in 2025, partnering with Max Verstappen.
- Despite Perez's early success in 2023, a decline in performance sparked doubts about his future with Red Bull.
Formula 1 expert Lawrence Barretto has raised the prospect of Daniel Ricciardo making a comeback to Red Bull replacing Sergio Perez in 2025 and teaming up with defending champion Max Verstappen. The Australian driver debuted for AlphaTauri in 2023 to replace Nyck de Vries after his unsuccessful stint within the team. He resumed racing shortly after a short hiatus after serving two years with McLaren.
Although Ricciardo put on a good show, Perez faltered in 2023 after a promising run that featured two race wins, including that in Azerbaijan. In light of his subpar showing nearing the final stretch of the season, sparked doubts regarding Perez’s future with the team. The Mexican will be out of contract at the end of this upcoming 2024 season.
Will Daniel Ricciardo return to Red Bull in 2025?
Lawrence Barretto suggests that Ricciardo could make the switch to Red Bull in 2025. Barretto stated, “As it stands, it is believed Ricciardo tops senior management’s list of suitable replacements. The Australian will need to get back to his very best this year, and with many insiders feeling his AlphaTauri team will make a big step forward this year in terms of competitiveness, there’s a strong chance he’ll deliver.”
🚨 Lawrence Barretto gives update on Red Bull’s 2025 seat:
“As it stands, it is believed Ricciardo tops senior management’s list of suitable replacements”
“The Australian will need to get back to his very best this year and with many insiders feeling his AlphaTauri team will… pic.twitter.com/ByD2JC035a
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) January 6, 2024
The Mexican driver lives on with the belief that he might sign an extension with the Austrian outfit. Barretto visualizes a scenario in which Red Bull, not thrilled with Checo’s performance, would begin to look into their driver pool. However, Ricciardo seems to be on top of the recommendation list.
Despite his pair of wins in the early part of the 2023 season, the Mexican waned on his momentum during the Miami Grand Prix. Red Bull team lead, Christian Horner insists that Perez will be an integral part of the team throughout the end of his existing contract in 2024.
Former world champion predicts Checo’s future in F1
Two-time champion Mika Hakkinen is unclear whether Sergio Perez will remain with the Austrian outfit beyond 2024. While discussing the prospects of Perez in the team, Hakkinen said, “I know that having a Mexican driver is important for Red Bull. Mexico is a big market, which has its effect on things. But ultimately, you’re there to race and bring good results – and to develop the car faster.”
“You can’t rely on one driver. You need to have two drivers on a certain level in order to develop the car. Is Perez’s future at Red Bull? I think it’s highly unlikely.” – Mika Hakkinen
Also, “two drivers on a certain level” are needed for points, once competition catches up #F1 pic.twitter.com/cM18DLWHo4
— Simon Dau (@there_is_no_if) January 3, 2024
He also added, “You can’t rely on one driver. You need to have two drivers on a certain level in order to develop the car. Is Perez’s future at Red Bull? I think it’s highly unlikely.” As the season went on, doubts over Checo’s future intensified based on his inability to keep up with his teammate, Max Verstappen. Red Bull would surely appreciate a more competitive season from the driver.
Regardless, 2024 is going to be an exciting year for the Milton Keynes-based team as well as their rivals, who are desperate to match up the speed of RB19.