Jos Verstappen has expressed that he would not be “opposed” to Red Bull promoting Liam Lawson to partner his son Max amid Sergio Perez’s struggles in Formula 1.
Verstappen delivered an end to Red Bull’s recent barren period in Brazil last weekend with a memorable comeback drive from 17th place on the grid in wet conditions.
The Dutchman’s return to the top step has all but guaranteed he will retain the Drivers’ title, but Red Bull’s prospects were dealt a blow as Perez returned a single point.
Perez has now managed a meagre 19 points in the seven rounds since the summer break, contributing to Red Bull slipping to third in the Constructors’ Championship.
However, Perez, who hasn’t been on the podium since the Chinese Grand Prix in April, has continued to insist that he will retain his spot alongside Verstappen in 2025.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, though, has revealed that the side’s senior management will meet when the season concludes next month to discuss Perez’s position.
“Checo has a contract for next year, but we are evaluating the whole situation,” Marko said.
“After Abu Dhabi we will know all the facts and we will make our decision.”
Verstappen Sr backs Lawson to replace Perez
Perez’s ongoing slump has even prompted Red Bull boss Christian Horner to toughen his stance on the Mexican as he conceded “difficult decisions” have to be made.
The probable candidate to replace Perez appears to be Liam Lawson, who has excelled since hopping into the RB mid-season with two points finishes in three events.
Verstappen Sr has divulged that he would be open to seeing Lawson land a Red Bull promotion, as he has contended that Max needs a stronger presence next to him.
“I think Lawson is doing very well,” the Dutchman told Viaplay.
“It seems logical to me that he is ready to step up. Let him finish this season and build confidence and then the team has to decide what they do for next year.
“I certainly don’t oppose that [Lawson replacing Perez]. It’s better if there is someone who is competitive and pushes Max forward a bit. That always helps, but we’ll see.”
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