The news of Sergio Checo Pérez’s departure from Red Bull Racing has been a big topic of conversation ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season. After weeks of speculation, the team and the driver announced their separation, marking the end of a successful four-year partnership.
In his farewell statement, Sergio Pérez expressed gratitude for his time with Red Bull:
“After four incredible seasons together, we have agreed to part ways. I am proud of what we achieved as a team, and I will always cherish these years.”
Who is Sergio Checo Pérez?
Sergio Michel “Checo” Pérez Mendoza is a Mexican racing driver who, over a successful career in Fórmula 1 (F1), has built a reputation as one of the most accomplished drivers from Latin America.
Born on January 26, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Pérez developed an early passion for racing, inspired by his father Antonio Pérez, a former racer and manager.
Checo began karting at just six years old, quickly proving his talent by winning several championships in his junior years. By the age of 14, with the backing of Carlos Slim’s Escudería Telmex, Pérez transitioned to single-seater cars, setting the foundation for his rise to F1.
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How old is Sergio Pérez?
The former Red Bull driver is 34 years old.
What is Sergio Pérez’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Sergio Pérez’s net worth is estimated to be $50 million. The fortune of the Mexican driver stems from his contracts with various F1 teams including Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and most notably, Red Bull Racing. His earnings have been bolstered by race victories, podium finishes, and significant endorsements.
Pérez’s career reached new heights with Red Bull, where he played a vital role in the team’s dominance and contributed to two Constructors’ World Championships alongside teammate Max Verstappen.
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How did Checo Pérez start his racing career?
Checo Pérez’s career began in Mexico, but his ambitions quickly took him to international competitions. By 2005, he moved to Europe to compete in Formula BMW, demonstrating his talent on global circuits. Despite initial struggles, Pérez’s determination paid off:
- 2007: Won the British Formula 3 National Class
- 2009: Finished as runner-up in the GP2 Series, a feeder competition for Formula 1
His success in GP2 opened the doors to Fórmula 1 in 2011, where he debuted with Sauber. Notably, Pérez became the first Mexican driver in the World Championship since Héctor Rebaque in 1981.
How much has Sergio Pérez earned throughout his F1 career?
Throughout his career, Sergio Pérez has earned millions through lucrative contracts with multiple F1 teams:
- Force India (2014-2018): Signed a $16.5 million contract
- Racing Point (2019-2020): Secured a three-year contract extension
- Red Bull Racing (2021-2024): Pérez’s most successful stint, significantly increasing his salary and endorsements
While exact figures fluctuate, it is estimated that Pérez earned $10-12 million per year during his time at Red Bull, not including performance bonuses and sponsorships.
What are Sergio Pérez’s career highlights?
Checo Pérez has enjoyed an impressive and lengthy career in Fórmula 1, marked by numerous achievements:
- 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix: Pérez earned his first career win after 190 starts, setting a record for most races before a victory.
- 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Claimed his first pole position, achieving the milestone after 215 races.
- Podium finishes: Consistently secured podium results, cementing his reputation as a skilled and reliable driver.
- Red Bull Racing success: Played a pivotal role in Red Bull’s back-to-back Constructors’ titles and supported Max Verstappen’s championship dominance.
