Sergio Perez Secures New Sponsorship Deal – And It’s Not…read more
In a surprising development, Sergio Perez has made headlines not for returning to a Formula 1 seat, but by signing an extended sponsorship deal – and it’s with a name you might not have anticipated.
The former Red Bull Racing driver has officially partnered again with the Mexican division of Heineken, one of the most prominent global beer brands with a growing presence in Formula 1 sponsorships. The announcement was made via social media, where Heineken Mexico shared a dynamic promotional video showcasing their continued relationship with the veteran driver. The video features a large-scale mural of Perez being unveiled on the side of a building, underlining his iconic status in Mexico and hinting at more public-facing campaigns to come.
This news comes after a period of speculation surrounding Perez’s future in motorsport. At the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Perez stepped away from active competition, effectively taking a sabbatical. His exit from the Red Bull Racing team came amid internal restructuring and a performance-driven reshuffle. Red Bull chose to bring in young talent Liam Lawson to replace Perez, hoping to inject new energy into the team lineup. However, Lawson’s stint was short-lived, as he was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after just two Grand Prix weekends, further stirring the driver market and highlighting the volatile nature of Formula 1 team dynamics.
Perez, now 35 years old, is a six-time Grand Prix winner and one of the most experienced drivers in the sport. Despite stepping away from full-time racing, he hasn’t ruled out a return to the Formula 1 grid. In fact, Perez has recently hinted at keeping his options open for the 2026 season. In a statement, he confirmed that he’s in no rush to make a decision and intends to take the time to evaluate all the opportunities available to him. “There are many options on the table,” he said, “but I will wait a few months before committing to anything officially.”
This latest partnership with Heineken keeps Perez in the spotlight and connected to the Formula 1 ecosystem. Heineken has long been involved with F1, sponsoring races and working with ambassadors to promote responsible drinking and entertainment around Grand Prix weekends. Their ongoing relationship with Perez, particularly in Mexico, is mutually beneficial: Perez remains a marketable and respected figure in motorsport, while Heineken taps into his immense popularity across Latin America.
While fans may have hoped the announcement indicated a racing return, the renewed sponsorship is a strategic move that could help Perez maintain his brand presence while off the grid. It’s a smart way to keep doors open and stay relevant in a highly competitive environment where visibility can be key to securing future opportunities.
Interestingly, the announcement has also sparked rumors about what Perez might be planning behind the scenes. With the 2026 regulation changes on the horizon and several driver contracts expiring at the end of 2025, there is potential for significant movement in the driver market. Perez’s experience, combined with his marketability and consistent racecraft, could make him a valuable asset to any team looking for leadership and performance under pressure.
For now, fans can expect to see more of Perez in promotional materials and campaigns, particularly in connection with Heineken’s ongoing F1 marketing. Whether this marks a stepping stone toward a competitive comeback or the start of a new chapter outside of full-time racing, only time will tell.
One thing is certain: Sergio Perez remains an influential figure in the world of Formula 1, and his next move—on or off the track—will be closely watched.