Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has given his thoughts on Sergio Perez’s chances of winning the World Championship title this year. With Max Verstappen dominating the 2022 season and winning a record-breaking 15 races, Perez’s performance paled in comparison, with only two wins to his name. Speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, Horner stated that Perez needs to aim for the title as Max is the man to beat. He added that if Perez isn’t striving for the championship, then what’s the point of competing?
However, Horner admitted that the reality is that Max is likely to be the better candidate for the World Championship. Despite the harsh truth, Horner also spoke about the team’s expectations from Perez this year. He said that the team needs both drivers performing at their best to win the Constructors’ Championship. Being Max’s teammate is a daunting prospect for any driver, but Horner acknowledged that Perez has handled it well and was an integral part of Red Bull’s victory in the Constructors’ Championship last year.
Horner concluded by speaking positively about Perez’s evolution since he joined the team in 2021. “Checo has evolved since he joined the team in 2021,” he said. The team principal’s comments highlight the high standards expected at Red Bull and the tough challenge that Perez faces in matching Verstappen’s performance.
The fact that Horner is publicly acknowledging Perez’s need to aim for the title shows that the team is not shying away from the intense competition within the team. It is clear that Red Bull has high expectations from both its drivers, and Perez must up his game to match Verstappen’s performance. Nevertheless, the team’s acknowledgment of Perez’s evolution since joining the team shows that they believe in his potential and will support him as he strives for greater success.
