Red Bull to replace Perez before the end of F1 season? 'Have the cojones'

Perez struggled again (compared to Verstappen) in the United States Grand Prix. He finished last out of the drivers from the top four teams (aside from Hamilton, who retired). He was beaten by pitlane starter George Russell. Meanwhile, Verstappen was able to finish on the podium ahead of his rival Lando Norris. It was bad news for Red Bull in the Constructors' Championship as Ferrari finished one-two and closed their gap to Red Bull. Now, just eight points separate the two teams.

"Red Bull are potentially going to lose second place in the Constructors' because they've only got one man doing the job again," Herbert told Genting Casinos. "Sergio Perez got points this weekend, but he’s only getting little bits, nothing compared to what is happening with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, who are neck and neck as far as pace goes and got a massive haul of points when one-two."

Herbert wonders whether this is the end for Perez. "Sergio is delivering but not quite delivering enough, so do they replace him now? I think yes, if they’re trying to keep that second place in the constructors. Whether they have the cojones to do it before Sergio Perez’s home race in Mexico is the question - I'd say yes, because of the way the Constructors is playing out at the moment," the former F1 driver continued.

Who can replace Perez at Red Bull if needed?

Perez started the season well. Red Bull secured a one-two at three of the opening four races. But Perez hasn't been on the podium since race five. Herbert went on to name his ideal replacement. 

"Maybe they will keep Perez in Mexico and then make the call for Brazil. They need to do it sooner rather than later if they are going to do it. For me, it should have happened earlier. For me, it’s Yuki Tsunoda who should come in. I think Yuki has done a brilliant job this year. He's very consistent as well. His qualifying has been very, very strong. Always been very good at qualifying," Herbert added.

"His race was always probably his weak link. But I think that's improved as well, his race pace has really got better as well. I'd like to see someone like Yuki get that chance because I think he's earned it. Being up against Max is a very tough job, but I think from his consistency I see, maybe he won't be as quick as Max, but I think he'll be not too far behind. So I'd like Yuki to be given a chance, to be honest," Herbert said.

This article has been created in collaboration with Nicole Mulder

Want more Formula 1? Then follow GPblog on our various social media channels!

X | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube