After weeks of speculation, rumours and a flood of memes, Red Bull Racing finally confirmed Sergio Pérez’s departure from their Formula One team. Following a four-year stint that saw both glory and struggle, the announcement marks the end of a significant chapter for the "Mexican Minister of Defence." He is set to be replaced by New Zealand driver Liam Lawson, who replaced Daniel Riccardo at Red Bull’s junior team, VCARB F1.
This was not how it was supposed to go down. Perez had signed a two-year extension with Red Bull midway through the season. But it comes as no surprise for those who actually followed the races. He not only finished 285 points behind teammate and current champion Max Verstappen, but his poor performance also brought in only 152 points to Red Bull’s 589 points resulting in the Austrian team only being able to hold the third spot in the constructors’ championship.
Having been an integral part of the F1 grid for 13 years, Checo Perez has amassed a staggering net worth of over ₹400 Crore. Here’s how:
Sergio Pérez ₹400 Crore Net Worth Includes Bugatti Chiron, McLaren 720S, luxurious home in Puerto Vallarta and more
The Journey
Sergio Pérez started in Formula 1 with Sauber in 2011, showcasing glimpses of potential as he battled in the midfield. His breakthrough came during his time with Vijay Mallya’s Force India (later Racing Point), where he steadily evolved into a rather formidable competitor. However, it was 2020 that catapulted Pérez into the limelight. In his final season with Racing Point, he claimed his first-ever Formula 1 win at the Sakhir Grand Prix and finished fourth in the drivers' standings.
Despite his success, Pérez faced the axe when Aston Martin, Racing Point’s new incarnation, opted to bring in four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. But as one door closed, another swung open. Red Bull Racing signed Pérez in 2021, pairing him with the young prodigy Max Verstappen. Pérez quickly proved his worth, playing a pivotal role in Verstappen’s 2021 championship win by holding off title rival Lewis Hamilton in critical moments, including the now-infamous Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The following year, Pérez achieved a career-high of 305 points and secured victory at the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix. However, as Verstappen ascended to dominance, Pérez struggled to keep up, with his performance starting to dip in 2023. With Lawson replacing Pérez it is now clear that his removal came due to the lack of performance this year.
The Business
As of November 2024, Sergio Pérez’s net worth stands at an impressive ₹400 crore, according to Celebrity Net Worth. The bulk of his fortune comes from his Formula 1 earnings, which totals to ₹785 crore over his career. During his time with Red Bull, Pérez commanded a salary of ₹115 crore in 2024, a sharp decrease from the ₹213 crore he earned in 2023, which included a ₹131 crore bonus.
Beyond the track, Pérez has capitalized on his marketability. With endorsements from major brands like Banorte, Telcel, Claro, Mobil1 and Disney. Notably, America Movil, owned by Carlos Slim, has been a long-standing supporter, who has been backing Checo since his early racing days as a sponsor. Additional brand ambassador deals with Marvel, Nescafé Mexico, McDonald’s and Kit Kat have also helped the Mexican national.
The Portfolio
Sergio Perez has invested in the E1 Series, the world’s first all-electric boat racing championship, where he owns Team Mexico. He’s also launched his own performance nutrition brand, Habits by Sergio Pérez, and operates the Checo Pérez Driver Academy, nurturing young talent in Mexico. Adding to his ventures is a go-karting track, Kartódromo Checo Pérez, which has turned into a hub for aspiring racers.
The Luxe Life
Checo’s success is mirrored in his lifestyle. He resides in a luxurious home in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with his wife and son. Previously, the family lived in Madrid, a city Pérez has expressed a desire to return to post-retirement. His love for cars is well-documented, with a collection that includes a Bugatti Chiron, McLaren 720S, Porsche Panamera and more. Not to mention, Checo flies private in his Bombardier Challenger 604, which is said to cost ₹45.1 crore to ₹48.339 crore.
