Reports suggest that Perez faces an uncertain future with Red Bull due to his recent decline in performance. The 33-year-old seemed set to mount a world title challenge after winning two of the opening four races in 2023 but his form has since nosedived.
Perez came sixth at last weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, prompting Verstappen to aim a subtle at his team-mate. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko then did little to play down suggestions that Perez would not be replaced by reserve driver Daniel Ricciardo.
However, Alpine’s Ocon has now flirted with the idea of taking Perez’s seat. The Frenchman believes he could beat Verstappen if he drove the same vehicle.
Ocon told DAZN: “I see myself fighting with Verstappen for a world title, yes. If we have the same car, sure! Max is doing great now, he’s dominant with Red Bull. But I don’t care who the other driver is. I want to fight for the championship and I’ve always believed in myself.”
Verstappen and Ocon were once major rivals during their teenage years. The pair competed for the Formula 3 championship, but it was Ocon who came out on top.
The pair are believed to be on better terms than they were in those days, making a potential Ocon move to Red Bull less awkward. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff believes there was far more hype around the latter at the time, rather than two-time world title winner Verstappen.
Wolff told ESPN: “Back in the day I think there wasn’t huge hype around Max, because Max and Van Amersfoort weren’t winning the championship that year. Esteban won in a more competitive car.
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