F1 Shocker: Schumacher Exposes Verstappen and Perez’s Fractured Relationship at Red Bull

In a stunning revelation, former F1 star Ralf Schumacher disclosed a growing rift between Red Bull teammates Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, tracing its origins to the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix. Schumacher’s insights suggest a team dynamic at Red Bull that’s radically different from the past, raising questions about Perez’s future with the team.

Key Takeaways:

• Origin of Conflict: The alleged turning point in Verstappen and Perez’s relationship occurred at the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix, where Perez reportedly crashed deliberately, causing a red flag and affecting Verstappen’s starting position.
• Performance Gap: Schumacher points out the significant performance difference between the two drivers in the same car, with Verstappen consistently outperforming Perez.
• Financial Impact: Sergio Perez has reportedly cost Red Bull a substantial amount in crash damages this year, ranking third in the most expensive crash damages of 2023, which might be influencing the team’s decision on his future.

Ralf Schumacher, a respected voice in the Formula 1 community, has shed light on what appears to be a deteriorating relationship between Red Bull Racing teammates Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. His comments suggest a shift in team dynamics that has implications for Perez’s tenure with the team.

In an interview with Formel1.de, Schumacher stated, “It seems that the relationship between Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez is no longer what it used to be. I mean, there was a time, I remember that legendary race, [Abu Dhabi 2021], where he could still win the championship due to external circumstances. Perez did a great job there. But then there was apparently this incident where Perez apparently ‘intentionally,’ or at least that’s what we hear, caused a red flag in Monaco. I think Max didn’t take that well, whatever happened there.”

This allegation hints at a significant episode that could have fractured the previously harmonious partnership between the two Red Bull drivers. The Monaco incident, where Perez is accused of crashing intentionally to gain an advantage, appears to be a pivotal moment in their relationship.

Schumacher also emphasized the performance disparity between Verstappen and Perez, despite having access to the same RB19 car. He remarked, “When you see the difference between both drivers, what Max gets out of the Red Bull compared to what Perez achieves…”

Moreover, the financial aspect of Perez’s crashes this season has been brought to light. A Reddit user noted that Perez’s crashes have cost Red Bull $2.109 million in damages, placing him third in the list of the most expensive crash damages in 2023. Schumacher commented on this, saying, “Recently, the list of damages came out, how expensive the year has already been for Perez this year. Then, I think you don’t have to be a scientist to realise that the collaboration will end.”

This development adds another layer of complexity to the already competitive environment of Formula 1. It remains to be seen how this revelation will impact the dynamics within Red Bull and the future of Sergio Perez with the team. As the season progresses, the situation will undoubtedly be closely monitored by fans and experts alike.