Sergio Pérez’s revelations regarding his time alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull have reignited the debate over the most effective teammate for the Dutch driver. In an insightful dialogue on the High Performance podcast, Pérez remarked on how the team had been structured primarily around Verstappen, who received substantial resources and support.
As the current championship landscape continues to evolve, the conversation about Verstappen’s teammates is especially pertinent. Since 2016, seven drivers have occupied the second seat at Red Bull, resulting in a fluctuating lineup. This analysis draws on insights from GPToday to provide a thorough assessment of each teammate’s performance.
Analysis of Daniel Ricciardo’s Dominance at Red Bull
Daniel Ricciardo remains a standout in this narrative, having uniquely outscored Verstappen across two seasons (2016 and 2017). During his tenure, he secured four race victories, affirming his capability alongside Verstappen before departing the team in 2018 with a solid reputation intact. This period is often viewed as a high point in Verstappen’s career, highlighting how Ricciardo’s competitiveness pushed both drivers to excel.
Pierre Gasly’s Brief Struggle in the Red Bull Seat
Pierre Gasly’s stint at Red Bull was markedly less successful. Over just 12 races in 2019, he faced real challenges, finishing 11-1 in head-to-head comparisons with Verstappen in both qualifying and race results. The lack of performance ultimately led to his demotion back to Toro Rosso, indicating the harsh realities of competing in a top-tier team.
Alexander Albon’s Mixed Results During His Tenure
Alexander Albon’s time in the second seat was characterized by a somewhat stabilising presence, with performances that seemed to improve in race conditions. Despite a more competitive drive on Sundays, Albon was ultimately replaced after 2020, never managing to seriously contend with Verstappen’s established dominance. His experience underscores the pressure and expectations placed upon Red Bull drivers.
Sergio Pérez: The Longest Serving Wingman
Sergio Pérez has distinguished himself by having the longest tenure as Verstappen’s teammate, spanning four seasons from 2021 to 2024. While he reached the heights of a runner-up finish in the championship in 2023, a severe decline to eighth in 2024 marked the end of his partnership with Verstappen. This trajectory encapsulates the volatility of performance expected at such a competitive team.
The Emerging Talent of Isack Hadjar
Currently, Isack Hadjar holds the second seat, having accumulated 52 points and sitting eighth in the 2026 standings after nine races. Although yet to achieve a podium finish, Hadjar has demonstrated promising consistency, with several top-six finishes indicating his potential for growth within the team. His early performance raises questions about how he will fare against Verstappen’s continued prowess.
The SportiveNews view
The discussion surrounding Verstappen’s teammates serves as a reminder of the immense pressure inherent in a top team. Each driver’s performance reflects not only individual skill but also the team’s strategic direction. Verstappen’s dominance necessitates that his teammates perform at an elite level, and their struggles spotlight both the challenges of competition and the nuances of team dynamics in Formula 1.
Frequently asked questions
Who has been the most successful teammate of Max Verstappen?
Daniel Ricciardo holds the distinction of being the only teammate to outscore Verstappen over a full season, achieving this in both 2016 and 2017 during his time at Red Bull.
What impact did Sergio Pérez have in his role at Red Bull?
Sergio Pérez enjoyed a lengthy partnership with Verstappen, peaking with a runner-up championship finish in 2023. However, a drastic decline to eighth place in 2024 ultimately ended his time at the team.
For in-depth insights on other drivers, explore our Formula 1 coverage. Also, stay updated on any driver market rumours that may arise as the 2026 season unfolds.