Sergio Perez has played a subordinate role to Verstappen. This season, the 34-year-old driver has shown improvement with four second-place finishes behind his teammate. Although the Mexican driver initially had aspirations of challenging Verstappen, it appears that he has accepted his position as the team’s number 2 in Milton Keynes.

Carlos Sainz, on the other hand, may not be inclined to settle for that role. The Spanish driver joined Ferrari in 2021 and immediately competed against his teammate, Charles Leclerc. Leclerc was considered the team’s focal point in Maranello. However, Sainz consistently outperformed the Monegasque driver and secured the team’s only two victories since 2023.

It is evident that Max Verstappen could face a real threat from Sainz. The two had a tense relationship during their debut season at Toro Rosso (now Red Bull). However, Verstappen outperformed the Spaniard with impressive results. Red Bull may be compelled to implement team orders, which could further increase tensions and worsen the situation.

Therefore, it would be in Red Bull’s interest to continue with Sergio Perez. The Mexican driver has overcome his challenges and now serves as the ideal teammate for Max Verstappen. Compared to Carlos Sainz, the 34-year-old driver would avoid any conflict with the Dutch driver. However, if circumstances change in the coming weeks, Milton Keynes may take a risk.