Ever since Daniel Ricciardo made the shocking switch to Renault (now, Alpine), Red Bull Racing has been trying hard to fill the significant void left behind by the Australian. Of course, Max Verstappen is inarguably leading the Milton Keynes outfit from the front and has recorded impeccable success in a limited time. However, it is the number 2 seat that has often caused a spot of bother for Red Bull.
After the likes of Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon, there was a glimmer of hope when Sergio Perez arrived at Red Bull in 2021. True to the heightened expectations, the Mexican showcased an impressive level of composure and played the perfect ‘wingman’ role to Verstappen during crucial moments, including the title showdown at the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP.
GP de Abu Dhabi – 2021
🇬🇧 Lewis Hamilton vs.🇲🇽 Sergio Pérez pic.twitter.com/fDmmHWNFvj
— Ultrapassagens e disputas na F1 (@F1Tododia) January 21, 2022
However, fast-forward to 2023, there is a cloud of uncertainty developing over the number 2 seat yet again amidst Perez’s horrendous run of form. Consequently, the rumors of Red Bull potentially aiming for a dream team of Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are back. But, does the reality suggest a similar story? Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, doesn’t think so.
Horner rejects Max Verstappen-Lewis Hamilton dream team for Red Bull
While a Hamilton-Verstappen combo does sound amazing enough, Horner admitted the signing of Hamilton would force Red Bull to sell its own factory. “We have never considered this in the recent past,” he said on potential interest for Hamilton, according to RacingNews365.
“If only we have to pay those two drivers… Then we probably have to sell the factory. It should be clear that Lewis is a fantastic driver. Hopefully, he will stay in the sport for years to come.”
Verstappen is currently earning a whopping $55 million per year at Red Bull. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s salary is approximately $35 million at Mercedes. But, what’s shocking is the Briton, at one point, was earning close to $63 million, possibly when the Brackley outfit was flying at an untouchable height.
Hence, bringing such an expensive driver to Red Bull could well force the reigning world champions to spend over $100 million in salary for the drivers. But, it isn’t just about the overwhelming salary, but also the rivalry between the duo.
Signing Hamilton would mean that Red Bull will have two alpha drivers seeking the one big trophy which subsequently increases the chances of witnessing camaraderie turn into animosity between the 7-time world champion and his forever arch-rival Verstappen. Hence, as a team principal of supremely dominant Red Bull, Horner wouldn’t want to endure Mercedes’ nightmarish 2016 season.