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Max Verstappen Snubs Teammate Sergio Perez to Pick Fernando Alonso as the Better Driver

Published 03/16/2024, 6:26 AM EDT

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via Imago

In the world of Formula One, there is not a single moment when things are on the down low. Red Bull has been stirring up controversy and with that, there is instability within the team. What’s more is that after this season, Sergio Perez will end his contract, and possibly need to find a new team. But will Checo leave Red Bull?

While this is still possible, the team might want to try another driver who can spar with Max Verstappen. Red Bull had recently organized an interview with the star driver, where they called in the popular Twitch streamer, TheGrefg to Dubai in order to bring out some insights on the defending world champion. In the interview, the Dutchman revealed a driver on the grid, he would like to drive with.

Fernando Alonso–the possible Sergio Perez replacement

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When you think of where Fernando Alonso will be going after his contract is done, you mostly might guess Mercedes. All the rumors around the paddocks say so. But in the interview with TheGrefg, Max Verstappen said something that might change the expected grid in 2025. When asked the question about who is a better driver in the same car, Fernando Alonso or Checo, Verstappen’s answer did not support his teammate.

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Verstappen told the Twitch streamer, “It’s difficult. I think Fernando of course has shown being a world champion that he is very very fast as well. It’s difficult to choose but… what I like about Fernando is that he never gives up. I mean, he is 42 years old and he’s still got it.” While the 26-year-old did not put his teammate down, he focused on Alonso’s skills on the track and his dedication to the sport despite his age.

With Max Verstappen’s words, will the team be influenced to bring in two world champions in one team? If Sergio Perez does not renew the contract, the seat is open for the taking, but ultimately, who will be driving alongside the Dutchman, that is the main question.

Who will be Max Verstappen’s teammate in 2025?

Max Verstappen has a habit of leaving his teammates behind. Over the years, he has worn out many drivers by being in the lead. With a dominance unlike ever seen before, this win-steak monster on the track needs someone equally fierce besides him. While Fernando Alonso perfectly fits the description, other skilled drivers will be looking for a seat in 2025.

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via Reuters

Daniel Ricciardo, the one-time Red Bull star boy, decided to walk out on Red Bull, only to make a comeback after a difficult time shuffling around teams. But he always has had his eye on beating Verstappen. While he did try to do so earlier, it didn’t go too well which led him to leave the team, but will this be redemption time for him? Yuki Tsunoda is another VCARB racer who will be fighting for the seat along with Ricciardo.

Carlos Sainz Jr is another top pick as he has been replaced by Lewis Hamilton, and would want Ferrari to regret taking him off the team. He has performed extremely well in the Bahrain Grand Prix and shows promise that he is ready for the taking. Maybe in a Red Bull, the Spaniard will be able to fight for the World Championship title.

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Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou from Sauber will also be at the end of their contract by the end of the year, along with the Haas drivers. With so many options for Red Bull and the power to give the drivers the current best car on the tracks, make it an open field for the taking. In the end, it is for Red Bull to decide who they would like to bring in for the upcoming season.

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Written by:

Viren Mirpuri

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Viren Mirpuri is an F1 Writer at EssentiallySports. With a Degree in Mass Media and a Specialization in Journalism, Viren is known for his speedy race day coverage outside of discussing the engine technicalities. Whether he's dissecting the latest technical innovations or unraveling the drama on and off the track, he ensures that his readers stay engaged and informed.
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Edited by:

Akash Pandhare