As the Abu Dhabi GP weekend unfolds, Sergio Perez's future with Red Bull appears increasingly uncertain, with reports suggesting a decision could be imminent.
A growing consensus, including from the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, points to Red Bull parting ways with Perez after Sunday's race. The team is reportedly giving the 34-year-old the option to 'retire' and retain an ambassadorial role. Should Perez decline, Red Bull would need to pay a substantial severance fee - and sever ties entirely.
In the meantime, Red Bull-contracted drivers Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, and Isack Hadjar are left in limbo, awaiting the outcome of Perez's situation.
"Until the situation is clear with Sergio and he decides what he wants to do, everything else is purely speculation," Red Bull team principal Christian Horner told reporters.
"We've worked tremendously hard to try and support him, and we'll continue to do so all the way up until the chequered flag on Sunday, where hopefully he can get a good result at the final race of the year."
When asked what Horner meant by saying the decision is in Perez's hands, the driver deflected. "You have to ask him," Perez said.
It is becoming evident that Red Bull's patience with Perez is running out. Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko even suggested that the team's failure to secure the constructors' championship was Perez's responsibility.
"Of course I take some responsibility," Perez admitted. "But I also believe that everything cannot depend entirely on one person."
If Perez steps away or is ousted, Liam Lawson is expected to be promoted to Verstappen's teammate, with rookie Isack Hadjar filling the seat at Racing Bulls (RB).
Hadjar, who drove Verstappen's car during Friday practice in Abu Dhabi, impressed despite challenging conditions.
"It is now up to Red Bull to make the choice about what happens to him for next year," Verstappen said of Hadjar.
Marko praised the 20-year-old's performance. "He was very strong in the race simulation," Marko said. "His position in the car wasn't perfect. The difference between Max and Isack is about 20 centimetres in height, and also a big weight difference, so for a first attempt it was quite positive."
Hadjar also reflected on his debut. "We had to raise the seat, and I was not very comfortable," he explained. "My legs were literally touching my hands when I turned the wheel."
The French-Algerian driver insisted his performance in Sunday's F2 championship decider won't influence his F1 future.
"I just want to go for the title for me and for my team. It won't change my future," he told Auto Hebdo. "For my future, we should know in two weeks."
