Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz insists the decision between Alex Albon and Sergio Perez for 2021 was purely based on performance.
Last month, it was confirmed Perez had become the first non-Red Bull junior to sign for the Milton Keynes-based team since Mark Webber in 2007, this after an impressive season in which the Mexican claimed fourth in the Drivers’ Championship despite missing two races due to Covid-19.
In doing so, Perez took the seat previously held by Albon, despite speculation Red Bull’s Thai co-owners were pressuring Mateschitz to keep him at the team
“These are inventions by some people,” he told SpeedWeek.
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“We needed two strong drivers next year. Perez is one of the best in terms of performance and has never had a chance in a car like ours.
“He has earned this chance. Our goal was to fill the second seat as best as possible – based exclusively on performance, who can score more points?”
On Perez’s side, he also enjoys strong financial backing from companies owned by billionaire Carlos Slim.
And though Red Bull is potentially facing increased costs as they prepare to take over Honda’s engine project post-2021, Mateschitz also denied any influence there.
“I don’t even know who he has,” the CEO said alluding to Perez’s sponsors.
“That was not a deciding factor. If he brings sponsors we welcome it because it’s not a payment for a seat, it’s a bonus for the team.”
Last year, Mateschitz, like everyone, watched on as Mercedes dominated the championship once again.
But with Perez now on-board, and buoyed by the team’s victory in Abu Dhabi, the Red Bull chief is confident of a better 2021.
“Yes. Next year will be a lot closer. Everyone is moving closer together,” he said.
“We are getting closer to Mercedes but McLaren, Aston Martin, Alpine are also getting closer to us.
“The competition behind Mercedes is very intense, and don’t forget AlphaTauri, [Pierre] Gasly had a sensational driving season and is now very confident. Daniil Kvyat also had excellent races but unfortunately, he lacked consistency.”