Horner: "That has yielded intense questioning and external pressure for Albon”

After months of rumours and speculation, it's been confirmed; Sergio Perez will replace Alexander Albon at Red Bull Racing in 2021. Nevertheless, team boss Christian Horner would have preferred things to be different.

While Albon's performance lagged behind, the pressure on the Thai driver continued to increase. Horner was very impressed by Albon's strength in that period. "Max’s 2021 team-mate has been a matter for debate and at times something that has yielded intense questioning and external pressure for Alex", Horner says on Motorsportweek.com.

The way in which Albon dealt with all the criticism and pressure was admirable, according to Horner. “He handled this extremely well and it impressed me how much strength, resilience and class he has displayed throughout. All of us wanted to see Alex retain the seat for 2021." After an extensive evaluation at the end of the season, Perez was finally chosen.

Albon won't go all the way, he will stay with Red Bull next year as a test and reserve driver. “Alex remains an important part of the team and will focus on 2022 development and of course making himself a contender for a future race seat.”

The arrival of Perez is a break with a long Red Bull tradition. “We have decided to go outside of the programme for the first time since 2007 but we need to field the strongest team possible in order to take the fight to Mercedes. Sergio’s experience will be crucial next season and we look forward to welcoming him to the team.”