Despite winning the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix season finale, Mexican driver Sergio Perez knew he was going to conclude his F1 career.
Perez was unsure of his future and continued Formula 1 career towards the end of that season since Racing Point/Aston Martin had told him they would not renew his contract for the 2021 season.
This meant that Perez would not be having a ride in 2021 rendering him a free agent. However, all was not lost as Red Bull recognized his impressive performance and eventually signed him.
The 31-year old was signed as Verstappen’s teammate replacing Alex Albon who was handed the role of reserve driver. However, talking in a recent interview, Perez stated that his career would have been over if it hadn’t been for the Milton-Keynes-based marque.
“I would probably have ended my career in Formula 1 if Red Bull didn’t give me the opportunity,” the Red Bull driver said.
Perez has all the reason to thank his fans, supporters and Max Verstappen that he did not retire. In the 2021 season, he demonstrated his full class and talent in the unbeatable Red Bull machine, which included an emotional and historic but frustrating season finish for the Mexican.
Red Bull scored a key double podium in Mexico, Checo’s home race, in their close but fierce season-long battle with Mercedes. He made a record after becoming the first Mexican driver to ever win a race in Mexico with his podium finish.
Perez talked about the history making Mexico race. Regardless, he explained why he was disappointed with the outcome.
“That was a very nice moment for myself and for my career because I had all of the people that had been with me since day one,” the Red Bull driver said.
“It was great, but it is not enough. I want to win my home Grand Prix one day.”
