Verstappen reacts as Perez extends at Red Bull

Max Verstappen has reacted to the announcement that Sergio Perez will be his team-mate for the next two Formula 1 seasons.

Ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Red Bull confirmed Perez's extended deal which will cover the 2025 and 2026 campaigns.

The Mexican driver's struggling form across last year's campaign led to speculation that he could be dropped when his deal expired at the end of 2024.

However, Red Bull has opted to stick with the 34-year-old for the next two seasons and continue its existing partnership between Verstappen and Perez, which has existed since 2021.

“It is great news that Checo has signed with the team until 2026 and I am glad to be able to continue with the successful partnership that we have created over the past few years,” Verstappen said. 

“We achieved a record-breaking season last year and the team is very strong, so we are looking forward to building on this success into the next two years as well.”

Canadian Grand Prix

Red Bull enter the Canadian Grand Prix this weekend looking to bounce back from a difficult event at Monaco.

Verstappen qualified and ended the race in sixth while a low-starting position for Perez was preceded by a major opening lap crash that eliminated him from the race.

“Following a more difficult weekend in Monaco, this week I have been with the team back at the factory and in the sim preparing for the Canadian Grand Prix,” Verstappen said. 

“The track there is very unique, has some old school kerbs and there are plenty more opportunities for overtaking. 

“It is even more important to have a good set up of the car and find a balance between the straight line speeds as well as good stability under the braking. 

“It is always good to be back racing in Montreal; the scenery is one of a kind, the atmosphere in the city is great and the fans are very passionate.”