Perez says Red Bull 'an option' but time is pressing

Sergio Perez says a seat at Red Bull is a realistic option for 2021, but the Mexican insists time is pressing to reach a resolution on his future.

Perez will be replaced by Sebastian Vettel next season at Racing Point, but opportunities for the Mexican to remain on the grid next season are dwindling.

Alfa Romeo confirmed on Friday that its line-up for 2021 will remain unchanged, while Haas appears to have opted to entrust its cars to F1 rookies Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin. And Williams also put an end to the speculation surrounding George Russel's seat at the British team.

However, an opportunity could potentially open up at Red Bull Racing should the powers that be decide to part ways with Alex Albon, in which case Perez is believed to be first in line to replace the British-Thai driver.

Read also: Williams ends speculation - firmly confirms Russell for 2021

But the Mexican would ideally like to have clarity on his future sooner rather than later.

"Until they’re not confirmed they’re an option, the same as every team that hasn’t confirmed," said Perez ahead of this weekend's Emilia Romagna GP.

"I think as the time is running there is very, very few opportunities to remain on the grid for next year. I think there is a very thin line in there.

"There is a time where you take the risk, wait, and then see what happens.

"The season is coming to an end, so I think it’s important for teams to know what’s going on, what’s happening going forward and for drivers too.

"I’m looking at all my possible options and I cannot take too long anymore."

Asked whether he would accept to fulfill the role on number 2 driver at Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen, Perez said he hadn't "thought about it in detail".

"The number two status is given on track," de added. "I would be very surprised if there is a team that when you come tells you that you are already a number two.

"I would be surprised on that, but obviously I don’t know how things work at Red Bull."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.