Max Verstappen has downplayed suggestions of lingering tension with former Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez, following recent comments from the Mexican driver referencing their rocky moments during the 2022 Formula 1 season.
Perez had said Verstappen “holds things in until he lets them out on track,” referencing the Dutchman’s refusal to swap positions at the 2022 São Paulo Grand Prix—a move widely seen as payback for Perez’s controversial crash in Monaco qualifying that year.
Verstappen responded to the remarks during an interview with media including Motorsport Week, saying:
“I have a great relationship with Checo… We were great teammates and I have a lot of respect for him. He has a lot of respect for me. That’s it from my side.”
Perez, who was let go by Red Bull after a tough 2024 campaign, is reportedly in serious talks with new F1 entrants Cadillac for a 2026 race seat. Verstappen welcomed the possibility of racing alongside him again and revealed a personal gesture is still pending.
“He gave me a helmet with a really nice message. I still owe him one of mine. Hopefully around Mexico, I’ll give it to him.”
With Cadillac eyeing Perez for his experience and race-winning pedigree, the former teammates could soon reunite on the grid—not in the same garage, but in the same paddock.
