Perez set to return to racing with Ferrari after his…read more
Sergio Perez, who recently parted ways with Red Bull, is reportedly in talks with Ferrari to return to racing in 2025. After being informed that he would leave Red Bull ahead of the 2024 season, Perez is exploring a potential role within Ferrari’s Hypercar program in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
Perez, who joined Red Bull in 2021, made an immediate impact by helping Max Verstappen secure his first Formula 1 World Championship in the dramatic 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Over the years, Perez won five races and finished second in the 2023 Drivers’ Championship. Despite his success, Perez faced challenges with qualifying pace, especially after he signed a contract extension for the 2024 season. Red Bull had initially planned for Perez to stay until the end of 2026, but both the driver and the team mutually agreed to part ways earlier this week.
Now, Perez is looking to embark on a new chapter in his racing career with Ferrari. His connection with the Scuderia dates back to 2010 when he joined their Driver Academy, eventually leading to his Formula 1 debut with Sauber in 2011. According to reports from Spanish outlet Marca, Perez is in discussions with Ferrari to join their Hypercar team for the 2025 season. However, his role would likely be part-time, with Perez racing in select events, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Ferrari’s Hypercar team, though, has already confirmed its driver lineup for 2025. Car #50 will continue with Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina, and Nicklas Nielsen, while car #51 will retain James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi, and Alessandro Pier Guidi. Given this, any potential move for Perez would likely require significant adjustments to the current lineup.
Although the details of Perez’s potential transition to Ferrari are still uncertain, his possible move marks a shift in his career from Formula 1 to endurance racing. Perez’s wealth of experience, particularly in high-pressure situations like Le Mans, would provide valuable expertise to Ferrari’s WEC ambitions. His involvement in the series, even on a limited basis, could be a game changer for the team as they continue to strive for success in endurance racing.