Verstappen delivers on 2025 promise with helmet gift for Sergio Perez

10:55, 01 Jan

Updated: 12:10, 01 Jan

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byKada Sarkozi

Max Verstappen delivered on his word to give Sergio Perez a helmet, completing their swap.

"Thank you for being a great teammate and friend."

- Max Verstappen to Sergio Perez

During the press conference at this year’s Austrian Grand Prix, the four-time Formula 1 world champion was asked a question about an interview Perez gave regarding the 2022 season.

Verstappen explained that the Mexican's words were misinterpreted. He said at the time: "I have a lot of respect for him, he has a lot of respect for me. That’s it from my side.

"I’m looking forward to hopefully seeing him again soon in the paddock. I still need to give him a helmet of mine – I promised him that, because he gave me one of his with a very nice message on it.

"I promised him, yeah, hopefully around Mexico that I can give him mine. So, for me, whatever is written in the media, I know how Checo is and we have a great relationship."

Perez returns to F1 with Cadillac in 2026 - Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

In Perez's year-end recap on Instagram, one of the photos reveals that Verstappen did deliver on that promise. The Mexican driver received an orange helmet from his former teammate.

The Dutchman also wrote on the visor: "Thank you for being a great teammate and friend."

The image can be found in Perez’s post below!

New chapter for Perez

The Mexican driver was let go by Red Bull Racing after the conclusion of the 2024 season.

After spending a year on the sidelines, 'Checo' will return to Formula 1 this season with Cadillac, teaming up with Valtteri Bottas.

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