Red Bull: Sergio Perez bullish in Max Verstappen fight

Bahrain Grand Prix

1 reactie

Perez bullish in Verstappen fight

Perez finished second to team-mate Verstappen in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix

Sam Hall

Sunday 5 March 2023 18:45 Updated: 19:03

Sergio Perez has maintained he can topple Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen after falling short of the Dutchman in Bahrain.

Perez finished 11.9secs behind Verstappen in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix as the reigning champion secured a lights-to-flag victory.

Despite taking to the second step of the podium, Perez never provided a threat to his team-mate.

But this is a situation Perez is confident he can change in the coming races.

Asked where he needs to improve to get closer to Verstappen, Perez said: "I think today it was really the start that put me out of contention for the race, but it was all about minimising the damage.

"Finishing second was the maximum I could do today.

"It's a long season. I think I'm getting closer every single session.

"I'm feeling comfortable with the car and we have a strong package and I will give my best."

'A dream start'

Article continues under video

The Bahrain Grand Prix saw Red Bull secure its first one-two result at an F1 season-opener in the team's history.

Reflecting on the overall result, Perez added: "It's a dream start.

"When we look back at last year and how we started here (a double retirement), it's really nice. It's a nice comeback as a team.

"We worked really hard over the winter so it's great to see all of the boys enjoying the first race.

"We have a strong package so it was important to get both cars to the end."

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Furious F1 star refuses apology from rival over controversial Chinese GP incident

49 minutes ago

F1 has become WWE and it may be your fault

1 hour ago

McLaren to hold talks with Mercedes after engine failure at Chinese GP

2 hours ago

F1 News Today: Alonso takes drastic action as FIA alarm raised

3 hours ago

F1's 'battery world championship' - Fernando Alonso fumes at new regulations

3 hours ago

Ferrari boss clarifies team orders after Lewis Hamilton vs Charles Leclerc fight