Pressure Mounts on Sergio Perez After Max Verstappen Passes Most Critical Test With Flying Colors: “They Aren’t Even Half…”

The Dutch Lion was too hot to handle for the F1 grid this season as he roared past the season with 15 wins to bag his second title. Max Verstappen was in a league of his own this year, and he let his driving do the talking after the criticisms he suffered for winning the title against Lewis Hamilton last year. Moreover, former F1 champion Nico Rosberg has showered the Dutchman with some high praise.

Being teammates with such a great performer is no mean feat. and Sergio Perez has been one of the most consistent performers in the sport. However, even the Mexican driver finished a staggering 149 points behind the champion in the same vehicle.

Moreover, Nico Rosberg has emphasized the difference in quality between the 2-time champion and his past teammates over the years. Rosberg told Sport1, “Max Verstappen is simply a brilliant driver. I am pretty sure that very soon he will join the top five F1 drivers of all time. Along with drivers of the likes of [Ayrton] Senna, [Lewis] Hamilton, and [Michael] Schumacher. The name of Max Verstappen will join that list.”

“It is incredible how talented he is and how impeccable he was.”

The German continued, “Obviously he’s the one you measure up against. And of course, his current and former teammates aren’t wimps. Think [Pierre] Gasly, Perez, and all the rest. They’re not even half Max’s level Pérez had some moments last year where he rolled a little better.” [Translated from Google]

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The pressure is on Perez to perform next season, despite a decent season. Moreover, the Mexican driver is aware that it wouldn’t be an easy task knowing his teammate’s pace.

Sergio Perez praises his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen

The Red Bull pair of Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen seems to have kept their differences aside after their quarrel at the Brazilian GP. Checo was recently full of praise for his Red Bull teammate and knows just how good the Dutchman is.

Talking about the Dutch Lion’s extreme qualities, Checo told Sky Sports, “He is an experienced and complete driver.” 

He further added why he thinks other drivers have a problem with the reigning world champion. The former Force India driver stated, “He is currently the best driver in Formula 1.”

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Checo would hope to challenge Verstappen for the title next season. The pressure is on the Mexican driver to start competing with the Dutchman. Can Sergio Perez win a Formula 1 championship?