Pressure mounting on Perez | Will Alonso retire at the end of the season?

Matt Baker is joined this week by Craig Slater and F1 content creator Tommo.

They reflect on the Mexico City Grand Prix and discuss the mounting pressure on Red Bull's Sergio Perez following his recent performances.

They debate if Lewis Hamilton will pip the Mexican to second in the driver standings and address rumours Fernando Alonso could retire at the end of the year.

They also question whether the Sprint format has worked this season and ask whether McLaren's Lando Norris could replace Perez at Red Bull.

In this episode of the Sky Sports F1 podcast, Matt Baker is joined by Craig Slater and Formula One content creator Tommo to discuss the Mexican Grand Prix and the mounting pressure on Red Bull's Sergio Perez.

**Mexican Grand Prix Recap:**

- Sergio Perez's home race turned sour as he crashed out on the first lap after a bold move to overtake Lewis Hamilton.
- Lewis Hamilton is now just 20 points behind Perez in the Drivers' Championship standings.
- Max Verstappen secured another dominant victory, extending his lead in the championship.

**Pressure on Sergio Perez:**

- Perez has been underperforming compared to his teammate Max Verstappen this season.
- Daniel Ricciardo's impressive performance in Mexico has put Perez's seat at Red Bull in jeopardy.
- Red Bull may consider replacing Perez with Ricciardo for the 2024 season.

**Sprint Format Discussion:**

- The Sprint format was used for the third time this season in Mexico.
- Opinions on the Sprint format are divided among the panelists.
- Some believe it adds excitement to the weekend, while others argue that it takes away from the traditional Grand Prix format.

**Lando Norris as a Potential Replacement for Perez at Red Bull:**

- Lando Norris has been linked with a move to Red Bull in the past.
- Norris is considered one of the most talented young drivers in Formula One.
- However, it is unlikely that McLaren would let Norris go easily.

**Other Notable Points:**

- Fernando Alonso's future in Formula One is uncertain. He may retire at the end of the season.
- Lewis Hamilton believes that Mercedes can build a winning car for next season.
- Red Bull is also progressing well with their car development for 2024.
- The podcast panelists discuss the importance of retaining talent within Formula One teams.
- Daniel Ricciardo's performance in Mexico has given Red Bull something to think about regarding their driver lineup for next season.

# Formula One: Mexico City Grand Prix Review and Season Insights

## Introduction

- This week's podcast episode features Matt Baker, Craig Slater, and F1 content creator Tommo.
- They delve into the Mexico City Grand Prix and discuss the mounting pressure on Sergio Perez due to his recent performances.
- The hosts debate whether Lewis Hamilton will surpass Perez in the driver standings and address rumors of Fernando Alonso's potential retirement at the end of the year.
- They also examine the effectiveness of the Sprint format this season and consider the possibility of Lando Norris replacing Perez at Red Bull.

## Sergio Perez's Performance and Future at Red Bull

- Perez's recent struggles have raised questions about his suitability for the Red Bull seat.
- The hosts discuss the level of performance Red Bull expects from Perez to retain his seat.
- They highlight Perez's qualifying performance in Mexico, where he was outpaced by his sister team, as a particular concern.
- Potential replacements for Perez are mentioned, including Lando Norris and Pierre Gasly.

## Lewis Hamilton's Pursuit of Second Place

- The possibility of Hamilton overtaking Perez in the driver standings is considered.
- Hamilton has finished second five times this season, while Perez has achieved four second-place finishes.
- The hosts emphasize the importance of podium finishes for Perez to maintain his position.

## Fernando Alonso's Retirement Rumors

- Rumors have emerged suggesting Alonso may retire from Formula One at the end of the year.
- The hosts discuss the likelihood of this happening and consider potential reasons for Alonso's decision.
- They also examine the impact Alonso's departure would have on Aston Martin and the overall driver market.

## Sprint Format Review

- The hosts evaluate the Sprint format after six races this season.
- They discuss whether the format has been successful in creating more excitement and engagement.
- Potential changes to the format are suggested, such as moving the Sprint to Friday and having a one-shot qualifying session.
- The commercial considerations behind the Sprint format are also acknowledged.

## Lando Norris' Potential Move to Red Bull

- The possibility of Norris replacing Perez at Red Bull is discussed.
- Norris' impressive performances this season have led to speculation about his future.
- The hosts consider whether Norris would be a suitable fit for Red Bull and how his arrival might affect the team dynamics.
- They also highlight the importance of Norris' current form and the potential impact on McLaren if he were to leave.

## Conclusion

- The episode ends with a brief discussion of Lando Norris' remarkable drive and his potential as a future Max Verstappen replacement at Red Bull.