Sergio Perez has faced challenges keeping up with the formidable pace his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen set.
Perez emphasizes his personal development as he strives to close the gap with Verstappen within the Red Bull team. Joining forces with Verstappen in 2021, Perez has struggled to match the performance level of the three-time world champion.
Verstappen consistently outshines Perez, whose underwhelming performances throughout 2023 raised doubts about his future with the team. However, Perez has demonstrated improved performance at the start of the 2024 season, securing second-place finishes in both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
In response to inquiries about his strategy for competing with Verstappen moving forward, Perez stated to the media, “Just maximizing myself in all areas.
“I think Max is a very complete driver that is very strong in qualifying, very strong in the race. Very rarely has weaknesses or makes mistakes.”
Verstappen encountered a setback in his recent race in Australia due to a right rear brake issue, resulting in his retirement from the event.
This unfortunate outcome prevented Verstappen from matching his record of 10 consecutive wins, which he achieved during his championship-winning season last year.
“He’s driving at a very high level,” Perez commented on Verstappen’s performance.
“I think when you look back, even in qualifying, the last two qualifyings, he’s been the only driver that has been able to maximize his full potential come qualifying.
“So I think just focusing on myself, obviously keeping an eye on what he’s doing, how he’s getting the maximum out of the car.
“At the same time, I think it’s just important to focus on myself and get the maximum out of myself. And if I’m able to do that, I know that I’m always going to be very close.”
