Red Bull confirm Perez for 2022 F1 season

Red Bull has confirmed it has extended Sergio Perez's contract for the 2022 F1 season.

Perez originally only signed a one-year deal when he joined the team at the end of the last year after being released by Racing Point.

But the Mexican has produced a number of strong performances as the campaign has evolved which has led to it making a quick decision as to who will partner Max Verstappen.

Team principal Christian Horner said: “Checo is a highly respected team member and his experience and race-craft are invaluable as we fight for the constructors’ championship.

"His integration into the wider team has been seamless and we have been impressed by his performances during the first half of the season which demonstrate what he’s capable of in our car.

"Next year we move into a new era of Formula 1 with completely revised regulations and cars, and with over 200 races and a decade of experience under his belt, Checo will play an integral role in helping the team navigate this transition and maximise the RB18.

"Our current attention is on ending the 2021 season as strongly as possible and we look forward to seeing Checo build on a first successful season with the team.”

Perez currently sits fifth in the drivers' standings on 104 points after winning only the second race of his career in Azerbaijan, following that with third place in France.

After agreeing the new deal, Perez said: “I’m really happy to be continuing with a great team like Red Bull into the new era of Formula 1 and it’s a great opportunity for me.

"Everyone starts from zero next year with the new regulations, so my only goal is to go all the way to the top with Red Bull.

"It always takes time to get on top of everything when you join a new team but things have worked well this season and I really enjoy being a part of the Red Bull family.

"We’ve been working hard to deliver results so it’s great to see the team have faith in me for the future.

"We have so much more to achieve together and we still have a great challenge on our hands this season so I really hope we can finish the year on a high and carry that momentum into 2022

"I want to thank all my supporters around the world and especially those in Mexico.

"From my sponsors to my fans, they have been so enthusiastic since I joined Red Bull so I really hope we can reward them by reaching the top and winning the title.”

Red Bull's decision means it is now certain AlphaTauri will retain Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda for next year.

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