'Marko unhappy with Perez and looking at Formula 2 and 3 to find replacement'

The game of musical chairs that has been played out at Red Bull racing since Daniel Ricciardo's departure looks set to continue into the second half of the 2021 season. The search for the best teammate for Max Verstappen is still on, and more and more voices are arguing that Sergio Perez will also be shown the door. Helmut Marko even seems to be looking at Formula 2 and 3 for the ideal replacement for the Mexican, according to Italian sports journalist Giorgio Terruzzi.

Terruzzi reveals that the Austrian Dr Marko admitted in a private conversation to being "unhappy" with Perez's performance. He does this in his own Red Bull-backed podcast. In addition, according to the journalist, Marko firmly rules out a return of Pierre Gasly to the flagship.

Instead of the obvious choices like Gasly or Albon, Marko wants to bet on young talent. Teruzzi argues that Marko sees wisdom in promoting a driver from Formula 2 or Formula 3.

Despite the strong form of sister team AlphaTauri, Marko is also "disappointed" with the performance of his protégé Yuki Tsunoda. As such, it is unlikely that this driver will be found on Red Bull's shortlist to fill their second seat.