Red Bull Racing has officially announced the departure of Sergio "Checo" Pérez at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, sparking outrage among his fans, especially in Mexico. The decision follows a difficult year for the Mexican driver, who finished eighth in the drivers' standings and was unable to prevent the team from losing the constructors' title to McLaren and Ferrari.

The Chosen One: Liam Lawson

Pérez's seat will be taken by 22-year-old Liam Lawson, a young driver from New Zealand who has been promoted from Red Bull's junior program. Lawson, who made his Formula 1 debut with the secondary team Racing Bulls (RB), showed consistency over 11 Grands Prix, with his best result being a ninth-place finish.

While Red Bull has backed the decision, citing Lawson's potential, it has triggered a wave of criticism among fans, particularly in Mexico, where many believe Pérez deserved more support after his contributions to the team.

Mexican Fans' Discontent

The decision to replace Checo Pérez has sparked controversy, not just due to his immense popularity but also because of his impact on Latin American motorsport. Many fans argue that Yuki Tsunoda, a driver for AlphaTauri, was more deserving of the promotion, fueling the debate across social media.

Moreover, some experts and fans question whether Lawson can handle the pressure of competing for such a high-stakes team. Paired with Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion and the team's undisputed leader, Lawson faces significant challenges.

Amid the controversy, Pérez bid farewell to the team with a gracious statement:

"I’m grateful for the moments shared and the achievements reached with Red Bull. I wish them all the best in the future, and I hope to return to the grid soon."

With these words, the Mexican driver hinted at the possibility of continuing his career in Formula 1 with another team.