Sergio Pérez has described his last six months at Red Bull as “toxic,” revealing that the massive success of the Milton Keynes team ironically created internal friction and conflicts.
The Mexican driver spent four seasons alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull, contributing to an era of dominance for the team. In a recent appearance on the High Performance podcast following his return to the grid with Cadillac, Pérez explained the enormous psychological burden that his final months in the second seat at Red Bull entailed.
“My last six months at Red Bull were very tough, even for me, who felt mentally strong,” the driver remarked. “They were very, very tough, and I would say toxic, and I really wanted a break. So the sabbatical came at the perfect time.”
Pérez was replaced at Red Bull for the 2025 season by Liam Lawson. The New Zealander competed alongside Verstappen during the first two races of 2025 before being replaced by Yuki Tsunoda and returning to Racing Bulls.
During Pérez’s time at Red Bull, the team won two constructors’ championships in 2022 and 2023. Verstappen secured four consecutive drivers’ titles during this period.
The Mexican also mentioned that internal pressure was a key factor. “Our excessive success made people tired, and they started to fight among themselves. But it was four fantastic years.”
Additionally, Pérez admitted that at that moment he wasn’t sure if he wanted to return to Formula 1. “I didn’t know if I wanted to come back,” he added. “When I left F1, I really thought that might be it, and I was ready to accept it. I am very grateful and I wouldn’t come back at any price.”
Pérez has signed with Cadillac, which has joined the championship this 2026, alongside former Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
