Red Bull Racing has had an eventful season, not just on the racetrack but also in the rumor mill. The persistent buzz has mainly revolved around Sergio Perez and his future with the team. Names like Daniel Ricciardo, Fernando Alonso, and Lando Norris have been tossed around as potential replacements for Perez. However, this time, the rumor spotlight has shifted to the other Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen.
The rumor suggested that Verstappen, who has had a remarkable season, securing 16 Grand Prix victories, four sprint race wins, and the coveted World Championship title, would finish the season with AlphaTauri to help boost their standing in the championship rankings. AlphaTauri currently sits in eighth place, just 12 points behind seventh-placed Williams, with the potential for additional prize money on the line.
However, Verstappen has set the record straight, firmly denying any plans to leave Red Bull for AlphaTauri. When asked about the rumor during an interview with Sky Sports F1, he laughed it off and simply said, “Luckily, I didn’t see them and I didn’t read them.”
While this particular rumor about Verstappen’s move is debunked, another persistent rumor revolves around Sergio Perez’s future with Red Bull. Despite Helmut Marko’s assurance that the 33-year-old Mexican driver will continue with Red Bull next season, the rumor of Daniel Ricciardo replacing Perez remains a topic of discussion.
Verstappen, when asked about his preference for a teammate between Perez and Ricciardo, remained diplomatic, emphasizing that the decision is beyond his control. He stated, “I always find with these kind of things whatever I respond, people take it out of context.” Verstappen added that he has a good relationship with Perez and, if that continues, it’s great. He also acknowledged his history with Ricciardo, who is currently with AlphaTauri and has ambitions of moving to Red Bull, saying they would get along well. Nevertheless, he reiterated that it’s not his decision to make, saying, “Luckily, it’s also not up to me to decide these kinds of things.”
As for Perez, who has faced a barrage of rumors, especially following his lap one retirement in the Mexican Grand Prix, Verstappen believes they might not bother him too much. He noted, “Of course, he was disappointed about the last race, but that’s life as well. That happens in Formula One; you move on.” Verstappen also shared his view on how Perez deals with rumors, stating, “I think with the rumors as well, like you just don’t really pay attention. He’s having already a very long career, so I think he’s kind of ‘rumors, oh whatever.’ I don’t think they do a lot to you because you just focus on your job and you try to get the best result when you get in the car.”
In the world of Formula 1, rumors may come and go, but one thing remains clear: Max Verstappen is committed to Red Bull, and Sergio Perez continues to be a valuable asset to the team, regardless of the persistent speculations that surround them.