Verstappen doesn't want to continue with Pérez: 'It's clear Verstappen wants a new teammate'

According to Ralf Schumacher it is clear that Max Verstappen does not want to continue with Sergio Pérez. In the German's view, the Mexican is becoming more selfish because he knows his contract expires after next year and time is running out to grab the championship. Pérez is still six points behind the two-time world champion after he managed to finish ahead of the World Cup leader twice, but he needs to do that 19 more times to really clinch the title.

Since the victory of George Russell in Brazil, Red Bull has not lost a race. With Pérez's victory in Baku, the Austrian racing stable recorded its 96th win in the Formula 1 and the 25th one-two. The Mexican took his second victory of the season, having also stood on the top step of the podium in Jeddah. Verstappen still holds a six-point lead in the championship, but Schumacher is doubtful about Pérez's relationship with Verstappen.

'It is difficult, and it is clear from my point of view that Verstappen wants a new teammate. I hear these rumors everywhere', the Sky Sports analyst said at Speedweek. The Mexican was given a new two-year contract in May 2022, meaning the deal expires in 2024. 'I see it as a problem Pérez knows - his time at Red Bull Racing is coming to an end. He is fighting for his chance to compete at the front, to win, to have something to say about the title,' the German surmises. 'That's why Sergio is getting more selfish now, and as far as selfishness goes, Verstappen can't complain.'

Schumacher: 'I wouldn't have wanted to be his teammate'

If the 33-year-old wants to win the title this year, a leaden task awaits him: beat Verstappen in the next 19 races as well. Schumacher sees how difficult this is. 'Max is doing very well, he is also rightly number one on this team, but is also undeniably setting his ground. Being his teammate is certainly not easy - I certainly wouldn't have wanted to be one', the German concluded.

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