Debate | Red Bull send warning to Perez by bringing in Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo will almost certainly return to Red Bull Racing next season. Helmut Marko spoke out and confirmed it earlier in the day before retracting those statements. The Australian is not yet fully confirmed, but this seems to be a matter of time. For Sergio Perez, it means the 2023 season will be the year of truth.

Perez's performance lags behind teammate Max Verstappen. The Dutchman once again gave his calling card in the second free practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix by setting an impressive time.

Behind the scenes, meanwhile, the two drivers are not always happy with each other either, as was evident last weekend in Brazil. Indeed, the two-time world champion decided not to let Perez pass him, causing the Mexican to miss out on expensive points. Although both men claim to have talked it out with each other, it certainly does not do the relationship any good.

Ricciardo wants to fight his way back into F1

With Verstappen having to ensure world titles at Red Bull in the coming years, the driver reportedly has a lot to say behind the scenes at the team. It means Perez will have to come on strong in 2023 to convince and keep a future with the Austrian formation. However, he will have to watch out for Ricciardo who will do everything in his power to regain a regular place on the grid in just over a year's time.

In recruiting Ricciardo, Red Bull are clearly opting for stability and experience. The current McLaren driver has failed to convince in recent years, but in the past he has extensively demonstrated the qualities he has in him. It is therefore clear that Ricciardo will be an addition to what Red Bull already has.

If Ricciardo manages to convince Red Bull in the new season that he is better than Perez then it could just be the Mexican driver's last season. The pressure is therefore on, but that is part and parcel of driving in Formula 1.