Verstappen given NEW F1 'team-mate' after major error

Max Verstappen will be joined by a new ‘team-mate’ at the Dutch Grand Prix after a major error ahead of the Dutchman's home F1 race.

Speculation regarding Red Bull’s line-up after the summer break intensified, after a series of poor performances from Sergio Perez.

F1 HEADLINES: Verstappen given NEW F1 'team-mate' as Ricciardo handed huge BOOST

READ MORE: Horner investigation verdict announced in huge Red Bull decision

The Mexican has scored 24 points in the last six races, the lowest out of the top eight in the drivers’ championship.

As Perez has failed to maximise his performances, McLaren have gained in the constructors’ championship with just 42 points separating them from Red Bull.

Who will partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull?

Perez’s F1 future was seemingly hanging by a thread entering the summer break, but Red Bull were quick to end rumours about their driver’s departure.

Team principal, Christian Horner, confirmed that Perez would be continuing with the team after the summer break, and that they would not be replacing him.

If the 34-year-old had been replaced, it was unclear who the first choice would have been, with Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson, and VCARB star Daniel Ricciardo both named as contenders.

Despite Red Bull retaining faith in Perez, the official Dutch GP app seemed to suggest that he would not be racing at Zandvoort.

They made a serious, albeit accidental no doubt, mishap with the driver profile for Daniel Ricciardo, which confirmed him as Verstappen’s team-mate.

READ MORE: Red Bull chief gives SHOCK Verstappen reason for Perez F1 future decision

“The self-styled Honey Badger is cuddly on the outside by fierce on the inside,” read the app’s description of Ricciardo.

“Behind Ricciardo’s laidback demeanor and wide smile lies a razor-sharp racer with grit. Ricciardo is a formidable competitor, with podium finishes and races wins at Red Bull.

“A brief stint at Renault and McLaren followed, but didn’t yield a title. after a short break he returned to Red Bull, showcasing his speed again at AlphaTauri, now RB.

“As Verstappen’s team-mate, he continues to strive for success.”

READ MORE: Horner reveals exit timeline after shock Red Bull departure confirmation

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