Sergio Pérez: “I’m Really Sorry for My Red Bull Successors” – Why the Second Seat Is F1’s Toughest Job

In a rare frank interview with Desde el Paddock, Pérez reflected on his four years as Max Verstappen’s teammate, the unique pressures of Red Bull’s “Verstappen-or-bust” culture, and why the team’s second seat is now F1’s most thankless job—a role that has broken five drivers in six years.

The Red Bull Reality: “The Car Is Really Hard to Drive”

Pérez’s tenure at Red Bull was defined by highs, like Monaco 2022, and crushing lows. Yet he harbors no resentment, only concern for the impossible standards facing his successors.

“The car is really, really hard to drive. It takes more than just talent—it takes time, confidence, and the right environment. I hope Yuki gets that… but I’m not sure Red Bull can give it to him.”
— Sergio Pérez

The Evidence: A Revolving Door

The statistics paint a brutal picture of life alongside Max Verstappen.

The Systemic Issues

Pérez exposed three core problems at Red Bull:

1. The Verstappen Exception: The cars are tuned to Max’s unique aggressive style, making them « like ice skating » for anyone else.
2. « No Excuses » Culture: The sink-or-swim mentality meant legitimate car issues raised by Pérez were dismissed until Verstappen faced them too.
3. Political Pressure: Pérez revealed decisions were often made under immense external pressure, creating instability.

Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale

Sergio Pérez’s Red Bull chapter ended with no regrets, but his “I’m sorry” message serves as a stark warning. As Isack Hadjar prepares for the challenge in 2026, the question remains: will the cycle repeat?

“At Red Bull, you’re either Max… or you’re temporary.”
— Sergio Pérez