The Shadow of Checo Pérez Lingers

After confirming that Max Verstappen will remain with the team in 2026, Red Bull faces a pressing question: who will be his teammate? Since Sergio “Checo” Pérez’s departure, the seat has become a recurring problem. The Mexican set the bar high in both points and consistency, and the team has yet to find a replacement who meets that standard.

This year, the spot has already seen two occupants: Liam Lawson, who lasted just two races, and Yuki Tsunoda, who is enduring a poor run of form.

Tsunoda on the Ropes

The Japanese driver has collected just seven points this season, three of them in the Miami sprint. His performance has fallen well short of expectations, and his contract expires at the end of the campaign. Red Bull has shown no signs of a renewal, and his future appears increasingly uncertain.

Helmut Marko, the team’s advisor, was blunt: “Traditionally, we evaluate our drivers after the summer break. Everything remains open.” He also warned that Verstappen’s teammate must focus on delivering for the team rather than trying to beat him—something he currently considers “impossible.”

The Driver Market in Motion

If Tsunoda doesn’t stay, Red Bull may look elsewhere on the grid. The team is seeking a driver with the right mix of experience, consistency, and teamwork—just like Checo Pérez once offered.

The problem is, finding someone with that balance won’t be easy. In a market where every team wants proven talent, Red Bull knows that choosing poorly could cost them critical points in the Constructors’ Championship.

For now, the second seat remains up in the air. While Verstappen’s place is secure, the mission to find “another Checo Pérez” continues without a clear solution.