Horner denies Ricciardo was an option for Perez's seat at Red Bull

Since Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 career was revived by his return to AlphaTauri, speculation has been rife about whether Sergio Perez's seat at Red Bull Racing would be in jeopardy - even before the 2024 F1 season, despite his ongoing contract. Christian Horner strongly denies that his team has considered that at any point.

Horner denies Ricciardo was option for Perez seat

Asked about speculation about a possible early driver change at Red Bull in 2024, Horner replied that it was only the media that came up with these reports. "Not one conversation internally. It was just your lot that were having some column inches to fill, I think," he said in conversation with Racefans.net.

"It’s great to have Daniel back in the fold and he’s doing a good job at AlphaTauri. And of course, what we’ve really got an eye on is what is our best foot forward for 2025," the Red Bull team boss adds.

For the 2025 F1 season, all options are still open. Perez's contract expires then, and even the Mexican already said he does not know what his expectations are for the future. At the same time, Ricciardo is angling for a comeback alongside his former teammate Verstappen, but Liam Lawson is also eager for a permanent F1 seat. Helmut Marko recently stated that the young New Zealander is guaranteed a seat in 2025.