Smiling Horner knows why Perez is suddenly performing better

Christian Horner is pleased with Sergio Perez's improving form. Yet the Red Bull Racing team boss is also cautious. The Briton feels that Perez's better performance is due to his expiring contract.

Perez has started the 2024 Formula 1 season well. The Mexican has already finished second three times, fulfilling Red Bull Racing's desire to finish just behind Max Verstappen. Horner is happy with his driver's improved performance, although he laughs when asked why Perez is driving so much better this year.

How come Perez is performing better in 2024?

"Probably because he's out of contract," Horner laughed at the press conference. "No, I think he's worked hard over the winter, and he's come in with a change, perhaps slightly, to his approach to Grand Prix weekends. And he's been very close in the four races so far this season, particularly at a track like Suzuka that last year he struggled at quite a bit, but certainly this year was very competitive."

Horner nodded affirmatively when asked if Perez is focusing less on Max Verstappen this year and more on himself. "I think that pretty much sums it up that both the guys get the same equipment at their disposal. I think Checo has been working hard behind the scenes. He's put a lot of hours in on the sim and his approach going into a Grand Prix weekend and set up and so on has converged with his teammates. So, yes, he's applying himself well and has driven some good races so far this year."

Despite the good performances, Perez can't expect a new contract soon. Perez's contract expires at the end of this season, and the Mexican said he expects clarity soon. However, Horner revealed that clarity will not come soon, as Red Bull are not exactly in a hurry.