The last two seasons have been extremely difficult for Sergio Perez. Despite his best efforts, the 34-year-old is unable to match the efforts of teammate Max Verstappen. However, Perez believes the worst is now behind him.
Perez optimistic he can finish the seasons strong
Last weekend’s US GP was confirmation of well-established truths at the Red Bull camp.
Max Verstappen executed two gutsy driver in the Sprint and Grand Prix to extend his Championship. Liam Lawson, meanwhile, delivered a statement result in his comeback – finishing P9 for VCARB.
The other recurring theme that was confirmed in COTA, regrettably for Perez, was the discrepancy between Red Bull’s drivers.
Sergio Perez was nowhere near Verstappen throughout the weekend. Perhaps of even greater concern, he again failed to take points away from the other top teams.
Speaking ahead of his home race, Perez argued that difficulties with the RB20 have been costly.
“When you have a very difficult car to drive, you’re making mistakes one after the other,” he told f1.com.
“And you try to compensate one way or another and then you are just thinking constantly on how you can maximise your car.
“Once you go into that cycle as a racing driver, it’s the worst you can have.
“People forget your career very quickly and what you’ve done – and even yourself, you start doubting yourself a lot.
“It did happen to me. But I worked really hard. The results have been very difficult.
“It has been a very difficult period for myself personally and for the team. But now it seems that we are on top of it.”
This weekend’s Mexican GP represents one of five opportunities for Perez to prove something has changed on his side of the Red Bull garage.
As Ferrari gain momentum and join the battle for the constructors’ title, the need for Perez to deliver only increases.
