Perez wants 'a little more stability' with Red Bull

Sergio Perez is aiming for Red Bull to extend his current contract at the end of this season, but the Mexican will also be seeking a "longer" commitment from his team.

Last week, Red Bull secured the services of reigning world champion Max Verstappen until the end of 2028, a duration that is believed to be the longest contract ever signed by a team and a driver in F1.

The new deal was no doubt food for thought for Perez. Last year, the 32-year-old admitted to giving little importance to the duration of his contract with Red Bull, having been hired on a renewable one-year deal.

But the two-time Grand Prix winner now says that he wouldn't mind a little more stability in the future.

"I have a contract for this season - it's just starting," Perez said ahead of this week's second leg of pre-season testing in Bahrain.

"I think we're very happy. I'm very happy with the team and how we did last season. Let's see how soon we talk about the new contract again.

"Without a doubt I would like something longer. [I’m] looking for a little more stability in terms of knowing and being able to plan more with a team."

Following F1's recent regulation change, all teams have undergone a reset for 2022. It's too early to say whether Red Bull's RB18 will prove to be a championship contender.

But if it is, Perez is confident that he'll be in a position to battle for the world title, even with the intrepid Max Verstappen standing in his way.

"I think there is no secret that I have got the fastest teammate in the whole grid," Perez told ESPN last month. "But I am working into it.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't believe in myself and if I didn't work through it. I am only here because I am working to be a world champion and I am giving everything I possibly can."

• Read also - Perez: Early days but RB18 has 'good baseline and potential'

To help him fulfil that ambition, Perez will rely on the year of experience he gained with Red Bull to take his game to the next level.

"Definitely knowing my team and knowing the car [will help]," he said. "Knowing how this team works and how it operates, just learning every day -- it's what made the difference as [my performance] went up through the year.

"But we also had very big lows and it was difficult at times. Pressure was kicking in.

"At Red Bull you are exposed to it a lot. Just being honest, just focusing hard on the right things and then delivering for the team is what really matters. I feel much better prepared for this season."

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