While Sergio Perez isn’t thinking about his Red Bull future yet, he would like any new deal to be “longer”.
The Mexican is enjoying a better start to his second season with the team, including claiming his first Formula 1 pole at the last race in Saudi Arabia.
So far though luck hasn’t been on his side after retiring on the final lap in Bahrain before having his race ruined by a Safety Car in Jeddah.
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2022 is likely to be a make or break year for Perez as Red Bull realise they face a growing risk of losing AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly should he not get a second chance at the senior team.
But Checo is hopeful his stay will continue, and not just on the one-year deals he has had so far…
“I have a contract for this season,” he told the Express.
“I think we’re very happy. I’m very happy with the team and how we did this season – let’s see how soon we talk about the new contract again.
“Without a doubt, I would like something longer.
“[I’m] looking for a little more stability in terms of knowing and being able to plan more with a team.”
This early into the season, however, Perez admitted looking ahead to 2023 and beyond wasn’t currently high on his priority list.
“I’ve been in Formula 1 for 12 years,” he was quoted by Sports Mole.
“I’m so focused on this season that I haven’t even thought about it. Eventually, it will come and it won’t take long in either direction, but it’s something I haven’t thought about yet.”
One thing in Perez’s favour is the strong relationship he has built up with Max Verstappen.
“We are more alike than people think,” the 32-year-old said.
“F1 is not everything, we have a life outside of the sport and that is why we respect each other and have good times together, which I think is also important for the team.”
