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Sergio Perez hints that Red Bull issues became ‘more visible’ after his departure

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Sergio Perez believes the truth about his time with Red Bull only came to light after he was dismissed from the team.

Perez was with Red Bull from 2021 to 2024, where he managed moderate success while doing his part when needed in helping Max Verstappen in his quest for multiple championships.

But after a disappointing, winless season, he and Red Bull mutually decided to part ways. Perez would find himself on the sidelines for the entirety of the 2025 F1 season.

Is David Coulthard right to be worried about Sergio Perez this season?

Cadillac driver Sergio Perez holding his helmet at 2026 Bahrain pre-season testing
Photo by Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Sergio Perez returned to Formula 1 this season as part of the brand-new Cadillac team. The veteran driver has been trusted to help Cadillac navigate the uncharted waters of Formula 1.

Perez reportedly looks happier with Cadillac than he did at any point during his four-year stint with Red Bull. And the Mexican driver has hinted that the issues behind the scenes have come to light since he left.

READ MORE: Sergio Perez says ‘Formula 1 is different from what I remember’ on first weekend with Cadillac

Sergio Perez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing walks in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 06, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Photo by Joe Portlock/Getty Images

Sergio Perez suggests his departure shone light on Red Bull’s internal problems

Sergio Perez spoke recently about his tenure with Cadillac and how he feels after returning to the grid after a year away.

While sharing his enthusiasm for Cadillac’s new project, Perez suggested that Red Bull’s struggles since his departure stem from issues that were prevalent when he was still with the team.

“I could see things that, for the outside, were not visible. They became more visible after I left, of course. I had a great time also with Red Bull.”

“For me, it’s just getting back and really enjoying my time with Cadillac. I’m really looking forward to this journey together. I think there are a lot of promises all around.”

“It’s a long project, a long shot. But I believe that this can be something very successful, and being part of something new gives me that motivation.”

READ MORE: Sergio Perez was ‘not happy at all’ with Cadillac’s performance on their F1 debut in Australia

Should Sergio Perez be more grateful to Red Bull?

Sergio Perez gives a thumb on the podium in Red Bull colours
Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

Sergio Perez says his feedback is ‘much more appreciated’ by Cadillac than Red Bull

When asked about the difference in approach between Cadillac and Red Bull, Sergio Perez noted that his input is taken into consideration far more by Cadillac than it ever was by officials at Red Bull.

“Definitely, I can see the way that the car is being developed and the way we’re pushing forwards in the same direction, it obviously helps. And I feel that, definitely, obviously, my feedback is much more appreciated.”

Even though Perez and Red Bull parted ways on amicable terms, there seems to be some underlying tension over his tenure there.

Perhaps we’ll know the full story of what went wrong between the two sides at a later date. But for now, Perez is focused on making the most of his opportunity with Cadillac.