F1 News
Perez surprised at own performance: "Didn't think I would be sitting here today"
- GPblog.com
Although Sergio Perez has shown himself to be an asset to Red Bull Racing on several occasions so far in the short season, he hasn't really posed a threat to Max Verstappen when it comes to qualifying speed. That changed yesterday, however, when the Dutchman was beaten in qualifying for the first time since 8 June 2019 [in Canada by Pierre Gasly].
Confidence in the future
Back then, it was a crash by Kevin Magnussen that disrupted Verstappen's late run, this time it was a sloppy mistake at turn three that cost the Dutchman. For Sergio Perez, the result came as a surprise, as he explained during the FIA press conference: "I didn't think I would be here today, because I'm still miles away from where I can be. It's not all going smoothly yet. So it really gives confidence, not only to myself but also to the team, that they know they have two drivers this season who can push the team forward together."
Step by step
Max Verstappen's lap may not have been flawless, but neither was Sergio Perez's. In his own words, he made a mistake in the final corner that cost him pole position. Despite this, the Mexican was satisfied: "Hopefully it will only get better from here, we can make another step in the race performance."
However, the good qualifying result doesn't put 'Checo' off his stride. His goal still remains to learn the RB16B with baby steps. "Yes, everything step by step. I'm in no hurry to do that. I know I'm not where I need to be yet, but it's very positive to be in this spot in my second race for the team."