OFFICIAL: Sergio Pérez will leave Racing Point at the end of the season
Big surprise this evening, Sergio Pérez has just announced in a statement that he will be leaving the Racing Point team at the end of this 2020 season. He currently has no plan B and will therefore look for another seat.
It’s a rumor that had been growing for a few days, but it’s an unexpected situation given previous statements made by Otmar Szafnauer, the director of Racing Point, who had expressed his intention to keep his driver duo for 2021. Yet, through a press release from the driver himself, Sergio Pérez announces that he will no longer drive for the Racing Point team in 2021.
« Everything we do in life has a beginning and an end, and after 7 years together, my time with the team will come to an end this season. » explains the Mexican in his statement while the team has yet to specify anything.
« It’s a bit hard because I believed in the team even during tough times, and we managed to overcome many obstacles, and I’m really proud that we could save the jobs of many of my teammates [note: during the Force India bankruptcy] »
« I will keep in mind good times, friendships, and the fact that I always gave my all. I will always be grateful to Vijay Mallya for the opportunity he gave me and for believing in me in 2014. »
To the current leaders and to Lawrence Stroll, I wish nothing but the best, especially with the arrival of the Aston Martin project.
The Mexican driver is therefore, like Sebastian Vettel, looking for a backup solution. He admits that he currently doesn’t have a plan B, neither in Formula 1 nor elsewhere: “I don’t have a plan B. My goal is to race here, in F1, but it will depend on whether the project I’m offered keeps me 100% motivated, every lap.”
A premature departure for Perez?
This announcement is a surprise in the paddock because Racing Point had repeatedly stated its intention to keep both of its drivers. However, in recent weeks, several factors have come into play that have evidently worked against “Checo”.
First, COVID had economic impacts, and Mexico is a country heavily affected by COVID-19. Sergio Pérez, although competent, is one of those drivers with a big sponsor. Therefore, he brings a real benefit to the team. Although nothing is officially known about the situation, it is possible that one of his sponsors canceled its participation, calling into question the financing of his 2021 season.
Then, Sergio Pérez was placed in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19. He was temporarily replaced by Nico Hülkenberg for two races, who showed impressive performances. Did he convince the Racing Point leaders? Did this replacement show that Perez was not indispensable?
Finally, the arrival of partner Aston Martin in 2021 requires a strategy that may differ from the one initially planned, especially since with Sebastian Vettel available, the English brand might seek to make an impact with a recruitment like that of the four-time world champion.
Otmar Szafnauer, director of Racing Point, wanted to thank his driver: « Checo has been part of the Silverstone family for 7 years and has become one of the most complete drivers on the grid. Fast in qualifying and races, he has demonstrated his skill and tenacity on track. We have had fantastic moments including 5 podiums. »
« Off the track, he’s a person with real character and a good friend. It was a pleasure working with him for so long. Although it’s a goodbye at the end of the season, there are still 9 races and plenty of opportunities for Checo to give us more memorable moments. »
