Perez Sets the Record Straight on Verstappen Relationship

• Sports

Red Bull Racing had a phenomenal start to the new season, securing victories in all three races held thus far. Despite this success, there has been much speculation about the relationship between their drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

Strain between Verstappen and Perez: Rumors and Reality

Rumors of a strained relationship between the two drivers started to circulate after Verstappen missed Perez in Brazil in 2022, as the Mexican battled for second place.

Additionally, there were reported "tensions" during the Jeddah race weekend this year, leading some to suggest that an open conflict could arise during the season, particularly as the two drivers compete for the championship title.

However, Perez has rejected these claims, insisting that the relationship between him and Verstappen is not as strained as it may seem. In his words, "To be honest, we have a lot more respect for each other than people might think out there." He went on to say, "There is a great atmosphere with the team, there is a very high level of respect between each other in the team with all the engineers from their side and my side.

I think we are both mature enough to know what's right and what's wrong. As long as that keeps being the case, and I don't expect anything to change."

The Future of Red Bull Racing

Many have wondered whether these tensions could escalate as the season progresses and the title race heats up.

With the futures of both drivers also uncertain, Perez has now spoken out, assuring that things are not as they appear. "I'm here to do the best possible thing for myself as well [but] to be honest, we've got a lot more respect for each other than people might think out there," he said.

Red Bull Racing currently has the best cars, but given that Max is at the heart of the team's project and is faster than Perez, a direct title clash seems unlikely as it would require Red Bull to give Perez the advantage in certain situations.

Despite rumors of a strained relationship between Verstappen and Perez, Perez has spoken out, denying these claims and assuring that the team has a great atmosphere with a high level of respect between all members. As the season continues and the title race heats up, it remains to be seen whether these tensions will escalate or if Perez's assurances hold true.