Haas has confirmed that Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez will serve as the team’s official Reserve and Development Driver for the 2025 F1 season. The announcement follows the Mexican driver’s departure from Red Bull at the end of 2024, marking a new phase in his F1 career.
Pérez, a veteran of over 250 Grand Prix starts and a multiple-time race winner, brings invaluable experience to the American outfit. Although he will not be on the grid as a full-time driver, his role at Haas will involve extensive simulator work, car development assistance, and stepping in if either of the team’s race drivers is unavailable.
“I’m excited to join Haas as their reserve driver for 2025,” Pérez said in a team statement. “This is a new challenge for me, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s development while staying close to the Formula 1 grid.”
Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu welcomed Pérez’s arrival, highlighting the benefits of having such an experienced driver in their ranks.
“Checo’s knowledge and expertise will be a major asset to our team. His feedback will be instrumental in helping us refine our car, and having a driver of his calibre available as a reserve gives us great confidence moving forward.”
F1 opportunities for Pérez
Despite losing his Red Bull seat, Pérez had expressed a desire to remain in the F1 paddock, and his new role ensures he stays involved in the sport. While it remains to be seen if he will return to a full-time race seat in the future, perhaps with Cadillac F1, his presence at Haas could provide opportunities down the line.
For now, Pérez’s focus will be on supporting Haas in their development efforts as the team looks to improve its competitiveness in the 2025 F1 season.
And if this news seems a little too surprising—well, check your calendar. Happy April Fools’!
