Sergio Perez: Mexican driver signs Red Bull contract extension

The Mexican replaced Alex Albon this year.

Sergio Perez will stay with Red Bull next season (PA Wire)

Sergio Perez has signed a contract extension to remain with Red Bull next season.

Mexican driver Perez, who joined Red Bull this year after replacing the London-born Alex Albon won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in June and is fifth in the championship, with 83 fewer points than team-mate Max Verstappen.

“I’m really happy to be continuing with a great team like Red Bull into the new era of Formula One and it’s a great opportunity for me,” said Perez, 31.

“Everyone starts from zero next year with the new regulations, so my only goal is to go all the way to the top with Red Bull.

“It always takes time to get on top of everything when you join a new team but things have worked well this season and I really enjoy being a part of the Red Bull family.

“We have so much more to achieve together and we still have a great challenge on our hands this season so I really hope we can finish the year on a high and carry that momentum into 2022.”

Red Bull are second in the constructors’ standings, 12 points adrift of Mercedes.

Team principal Christian Horner said: “Sergio is a highly respected team member and his experience and race-craft are invaluable as we fight for the constructors’ championship.

“His integration into the wider team has been seamless and we have been impressed by his performances during the first half of the season which demonstrate what he’s capable of in our car.”