Perez makes 'distraction' plea as Red Bull contract rumbles continue

Sergio Perez has stressed that he cannot let talks of his contract become a "distraction", with the Red Bull driver continuing to be linked with a possible early exit.

The Mexican driver endured another disappointing weekend in the British Grand Prix after a tyre gamble failed miserably, resulting in Perez finishing P17. 

Due to his recent poor form, questions are starting to be asked whether Red Bull made a mistake offering the 34-year-old a new contract, in the form of a 1+1 deal. 

Perez's contract is for next season with the option of it being extended to 2026; however, RacingNews365 recently revealed that there are clauses in the deal which mean his seat is not safe. 

He is insistent that he understands the terms of his contract and is focused on ending his current rut. 

"I know where I am in terms of my contract and that sort of thing," Perez told select media including RacingNews365. "I cannot let it be a distraction. 

"I need to focus on the next two weekends, which are the priority together with the team to get out of this difficult period."

'Light' visible

Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson is completing a test for the team this week at Silverstone, although team principal Christian Horner has rubbished speculation that it is to judge whether to promote the New Zealander. 

Weirdly, the British GP actually started very well for Perez, who enjoyed a very strong opening day. 

His weekend worsened from Saturday onwards though, with a spin in Q1 at Copse corner having seen him eliminated in the opening part of qualifying. 

Starting from the pit lane made little difference to Perez's Grand Prix, who actually believes steps in the right direction are being made.

"Looking back at it, we had the strongest Friday in a while," Perez told select media including RacingNews365. 

"So I think there's some light out of the tunnel. At the same time, it's a very disappointing race. But I'm also aware how much we can consider this race.

"Other than that, just making sure that we are in the ballpark with the balance, try to make the progression we need for Fridays and then things will be a lot better."