Red Bull Accused of Forcing Sergio Perez Into Bottas-Esque Role Against ‘Big Dog’ Max Verstappen

Red Bull was in the limelight for much of the second half of the season this year. From breaching the cost cap to Max Verstappen denying team orders to give his place to Sergio Perez, there was no shortage of drama in the Austrian team’s camp.

The Dutchman’s refusal to follow team orders in Brazil was a big talking point towards the twilight end of the season. It cost Checo the 2-point advantage over Charles Leclerc at the time of entering the Yas Marina Circuit.

However, Red Bull boss Christian Horner explained that the matter was solved between the two drivers and they had moved on from it. But it is hard to forget an incident as significant as that. Moreover, it caused many fans and reporters alike to compare the two drivers’ relationship with Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.

In the Fast & Loose F1 podcast, the guests had pretty bold things to say about the Verstappen-Perez incident. Scott Mitchell-Malm from the Race said, “I think Checo came into this team, genuinely convincing himself that he could be World champion if he did a good enough job.”

He also added, “I kind of feel like that had to be part of the motivation and I think very early on last year he learned what his rule was in the team, whether he wants to accept it or not. This year I think it’s been Bottas-esque like just gradual grinding down of his self-belief and confidence.”

“Max is the big dog in that team. He has been for a long time.”

READ MORE: “He is Demanding But…”: Red Bull Boss Reveals the Good Side Of Dealing With “Mad Max” Verstappen

It will be intriguing to see if Checo comes out fighting Verstappen for the title next season or not.

Sergio Perez looks to challenge Max Verstappen for his championship

Max Verstappen won’t just have a title threat from Mercedes and Ferrari, he will also have to look out for his teammate in order to defend his crown. Sergio Perez opens up about fighting for the title against his teammate, Max Verstappen.

Perez said, “Certainly I believe it. At the beginning of the year, if you look at it, I was matching Max [Verstappen]. It’s just about being more consistent. But I’m still learning. It’s my second year with the team. I believe I’m getting stronger and stronger.”

Perez also acknowledged the fact that his Dutch teammate was driving at a very high level. Moreover, he also said that Max did a fantastic job, and that he just needed to focus on himself if he wants to win the championship.

He further said, “I just need to work hard, work closer with my team and try to beat him next year. I would not be in F1 if I did not believe I could do it.”

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Perez might be hoping to use Verstappen’s snub in Brazil last year as motivation for his title challenge next season. Can the Mexican triumph against his teammate?