Perez fumes at F1's "lowest point in years"

Ewan Gale
Sunday 9 October 2022 19:07

Sergio Perez has labelled the deployment of a recovery vehicle during the Japanese Grand Prix as the "lowest point" for F1 in recent memory.

The race at Suzuka started in treacherous conditions as rain pelted the circuit prior to lights out, with Carlos Sainz crashing out after aquaplaning on the run to Spoon corner on lap one.

The safety car was deployed as the clean-up operation began, with a recovery crane sent onto the track to help remove the Ferrari.

Whilst those who were part of the safety car train were slowed to a crawling pace by Bernd Maylander, Pierre Gasly, who had pitted for a new front wing after picking up damage in the aftermath, was caught unawares at unabated speed, leaving the AlphaTauri driver incredulous.

The FIA has launched a "thorough review" into the situation after Gasly led complaints over team radio and after the race and with tensions not helped by memories of Jules Bianchi's horrific crash in similar conditions involving a JCB that would claim his life.

Perez denounced the decision to allow the crane onto the live circuit, telling Sky Sports F1: "That is the lowest point we have seen for the sport in years.

"What happened, it just makes me so angry.

"I hope we never get to see this situation ever again because drivers are put at risk.

"We saw what happened a few years ago here with our friend Jules, I don't care what the reason for it [was], this should never happen again in any category."