“Don’t Have the Need to Be In F1”: Red Bull Driver Sergio Perez Shakes off Second Driver Role With Firm Statement

Fans have mixed opinions about Sergio Perez and his driving. Some believe that he has the potential to be a world championship contender, but many believe he is willing to play second fiddle.

Checo’s brilliant pole lap at Saudi and his sensational drive throughout the season define his caliber. He has proved to the world that there is close to no difference this season when it comes to beating Max Verstappen.

Perez is the same driver, who kept behind Lewis Hamilton at the Abu Dhabi GP. He is the same driver who overtakes the seven-time champion like it has become second nature to him. The Mexican has reached the zenith of his competitiveness and cannot be taken lightly in the title challenge.

Sergio Perez is not here to be number 2

Sergio Perez has longed for a competitive car throughout his career. In his 12 years at F1, he has raced for several teams and proved his mettle as he rose up the ranks. While his debut last year with Red Bull forced him to play the second fiddle ultimately, he is not willing to be called number 2 anymore.

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Refusing to give up and quoting how a championship is his biggest desire, Perez is hungry for a win. When asked if he can fight for the championship and snatch away a win, the Mexican made his desires clear.

He said, “Yeah without a doubt. I couldn’t be in Formula 1 after 12 years, with my young children at home. I couldn’t just be there for the sake of it and to know I’m the #2 driver. And that I have no hope to win would be disrespectful to me and my career. I don’t have the need to be in F1, I am here because I want to win and I want to be a champion.”

Why was Verstappen preferred over Perez sometimes?

Explaining his titular hopes, Perez recently opened up about why Verstappen is preferred sometimes over him and said, “Red Bull gives me the opportunity. There’s nothing that says I have to stay behind Max. If Max has been ahead of me is because he’s been stronger on track.”

“Yeah, it’s a reality, right? That there were times, for example at Imola, he had an aerodynamic package a little more advanced than mine, but it was like that because of the timing, that’s how it happened.” 

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Perez, however, clearly believes that he has everything to win over Max. Many do believe that Perez can indeed catch up to the dutchman. He has consistently made it to the podiums and has also proven occasionally that he can be faster than Verstappen.

With the next stop at Miami, after constant podiums and brilliant skills up his arsenal, Checo is unstoppable this season. Can Perez make a run for the title this season? Let us know in the comments!