Johnny Herbert, a former F1 driver, has suggested that Red Bull should replace Sergio Perez with promising Argentine driver Franco Colapinto.
The Williams driver has been rumored as a potential teammate for Max Verstappen at Red Bull, but sources from RacingNews365 indicate that such a move would require Red Bull to pay $20 million.
Liam Lawson is also a candidate, while Yuki Tsunoda is considered a long shot despite recent strong performances for Red Bull.
Herbert believes Colapinto stands out due to his speed in a less competitive car and substantial financial support from Argentina.
“There’s been talk of Sergio Perez being replaced and the sponsorship value he brings, and whether Colapinto’s Argentine sponsors could match that,” Herbert shared with Vision4Sport.
“Both Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda have done a great job. Red Bull has two solid drivers, but Colapinto has shown more in the Williams, which isn’t as strong as the Red Bull car.”
“Paddock conversations hint that Colapinto deserves a shot,” Herbert added.
Colapinto’s Advantage Colapinto, along with Lawson and Tsunoda, has shown exceptional speed, though Tsunoda took longer to showcase consistent talent.
Lawson has adapted swiftly to Red Bull, as he did when stepping in for an injured Daniel Ricciardo last season.
Aside from recent events in Mexico City and São Paulo, Colapinto has also demonstrated rapid adaptability.
“All three have shown raw speed,” said Herbert. “Yuki took more time, but Red Bull stood by him, and he nearly reached the podium in Brazil.”
“Liam’s transition has been impressive, both in qualifying and race pace. However, Colapinto, unlike the others, hasn’t secured a seat but has earned the chance through his performances.”
Colapinto’s financial backing, comparable to Perez’s, might be appealing for Red Bull, especially with the potential return of F1 to Argentina.
When questioned if Colapinto’s F1 presence could lead to a race in Argentina, Herbert responded: “Yes. The last race in Argentina was in the 1990s, and Colapinto’s involvement could revive interest. There are plans to modernize the circuit there.
“Red Bull looks at strategic markets, and Sergio’s inclusion boosted their presence in Mexico. A similar impact could happen with Colapinto in Argentina, tapping into the significant South American market.”