Perez reveals F1 career wish despite being drained by Red Bull

Sergio Perez has revealed he had "other options" beyond Red Bull but that re-signing with the team has completed his "plan A, B and C".

Red Bull caused a surprise this week when it announced it was retaining Perez for the next two seasons, despite another dip in form, and being heavily linked with an array of drivers, including Carlos Sainz, Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo, and Liam Lawson.

It means Perez will have spent six seasons with the team by the end of the 2026 campaign, and despite conceding what the last three and a half years have done to him.

Naturally declaring himself "happy" to remain with the Milton Keynes-based squad, he added: "Once you get an agreement, it means both parties are happy with what they've got, and are happy to move forwards, and we've got great targets ahead of us."

Pertinently, he then said: "Red Bull is a team that really takes everything out of you. It's something that, since I came here, the intensity, on track, off track, it's a challenge you don't have anywhere else, that sort of challenge in my career.

"But when I signed, I'm really up for it. I'm willing to give my 100 percent."

The Mexican confirmed negotiations were "straightforward", bearing in mind his time with the team. "When you are already there, it's a lot easier to reach an agreement," he said.

Verstappen claim denied

But he did not deny there were alternative offers. "You are always talking to different teams. There were other options out there but for me, my plan A, B and C was definitely to stay at Red Bull.

"I really want to finish my career here, whenever that is. It's a team that has given me so much in my career that I'm just really happy. I just really want to give my best to this team to my last lap."

Perez, meanwhile, has denied suggestions he has only been signed to keep team-mate Max Verstappen happy given he has effectively played the role of rear-gunner for the Dutchman to date, and not posed any title threat.

In response, Perez said: "In Formula 1 there are always different agendas, and I really get that. It's something that has been with every driver since we got into the sport.

"I think the best thing to do is close the visor and focus on my job, do the best for myself and my career, and at the end of the day, when my career has finished, it's the only thing that will matter to me.

"What people have to say or not, I appreciate everyone has their opinion but at the end of the day, I'm here to do the best for my career, and I'm happy with what I've achieved."