Sergio Pérez has described the last six months at Red Bull as “toxic,” revealing that the success of his Milton Keynes team has prompted internal friction and unexpected conflicts.
The Mexican driver spent four seasons alongside Max Verstappen, contributing to an era of dominance for the team. However, in a recent appearance on the High Performance podcast following his return with Cadillac Racing, Pérez outlined the heavy psychological toll of his last months in the number two seat at Red Bull.
“My last six months at Red Bull were very tough, even for me, who mentally felt strong. They were really complicated, and I would say toxic. I really wanted a break, so the sabbatical came at the perfect time,” the 36-year-old driver explained.
Pérez was replaced at Red Bull by Liam Lawson for the 2025 season. The New Zealander competed alongside Verstappen during the first two races of the season before being replaced by Yuki Tsunoda, who returned to Racing Bulls.
During Pérez’s time with the team, Red Bull won two constructors’ championships in 2022 and 2023, while Verstappen secured four consecutive drivers’ titles.
The driver admitted that he was unsure if he would return to Formula 1 after his experience with Red Bull. “I didn’t know if I wanted to come back. When I left F1, I really thought it could be the end, and I was prepared for that. I am very grateful, I wouldn’t return at any price,” he added.
Pérez has signed with Cadillac, which has joined the championship this 2026, alongside former Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
