The future trajectory of Red Bull’s Formula 1 team has sparked significant speculation at the outset of the 2024 season. With Sergio Perez entering the final year of his contract following a challenging performance in the latter part of 2023, and amidst reports of internal tension regarding the handling of accusations against team principal Christian Horner, questions have arisen about the stability of the team. Despite Max Verstappen, the reigning three-time world champion, being contracted until 2028, concerns about his future within the organization have been raised.
Considering these factors, there was a possibility that the team, which has been the most dominant in the sport over the past three seasons, could undergo a complete overhaul in terms of its driver lineup for the upcoming year. However, recent developments have clarified the situation somewhat, as one driver previously rumored as a potential replacement has now been confirmed as not being in contention for a seat in the 2025 lineup.
Fernando Alonso re-signs with Aston Martin
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso surprised many when he departed Alpine after the 2022 season to join Aston Martin, replacing four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. His move yielded eight podium finishes, including three second places, securing him a commendable fourth place in the driver standings, his best since 2013.
While Aston Martin’s performance waned in the latter half of 2023, they’ve started the 2024 season on a relatively strong note, with Alonso consistently finishing in the top nine in all four races, currently sitting in eighth place in the driver standings.
Now 42 years old, Alonso, who had been linked to Red Bull and Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes for 2025, has extended his contract with Lawrence Stroll’s team. The multi-year extension ensures his presence at Aston Martin at least until the 2026 season, coinciding with the introduction of new regulations.
#AMuS: Red Bull and Aston Martin are pushing Fernando Alonso to make a decision regarding his 2025 seat
There is an ultimatum due to expire in 2 weeks time. It is said Alonso finds Red Bull's offer attractive, only if he doesn't have to compete against Verstappen.… pic.twitter.com/vkOjtOow5G
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) April 11, 2024
Reports suggested that Alonso had received an offer from Red Bull, but he ultimately chose to remain with Aston Martin.
As for Red Bull’s current lineup, there’s no indication from Verstappen himself that he intends to depart, and Perez’s performance at the start of the season has been solid, hinting that perhaps there’s no need for major changes within the Milton Keynes-based team.
Comparing Perez’s performance to last year, where Verstappen dominated with 17 wins in 18 races, Perez has already achieved three second-place finishes in the first four races of this season, showing improvement in his performance alongside his teammate.
