Red Bull’s hierarchy is no secret: Max Verstappen is the favored star, and Sergio Perez is the supportive counterpart. Though the team shied away from formal designations of “number 1” and “number 2,” it was crystal clear where the spotlight shone brightest. Recent seasons marked a turning point, as Perez found his footing and posed a genuine threat to Verstappen’s supremacy. The Verstappen-Perez rivalry doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Before Perez, both Pierre Gasly and Alexander Albon were swept up in the whirlwind of trying to match Verstappen’s level, resulting in their eventual departure from the team.
The 2021 season marked Perez’s maiden voyage with Red Bull, a season filled with challenges and adaptation to the nuances of a new car. Yet, he played his part to perfection, culminating in a pivotal moment during the Abu Dhabi GP. Perez’s strategic driving slowed down Lewis Hamilton, providing the Dutch driver the opening he needed to secure his first overall title. As Verstappen’s status solidified, he failed to reciprocate the support Perez had offered. This became evident in the Brazilian and Abu Dhabi GP of 2022. The chance for Max Verstappen to repay Perez’s 2021 assistance arose, yet Max Verstappen steadfastly refused to cede ground which cost Perez his P2 standing in the championship.
"can be me, because i do not give a f*ck!"
max 😭🤭pic.twitter.com/8Ab0FPcRwD
— Verstappen News (@verstappenews) August 16, 2023
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But amidst the battles for podiums and points, it was Max Verstappen‘s audaciousness that turned heads. During the latest episode of “Grill The Grid,” players were supposed to guess who the quote was about, a quote reads, “None of his teammate s have been able to leave upto him. ***** is a beast on the track, a winning machine who doesn’t give a ****** about what we have to say or what anyone else has to say.” Max Verstappen was tasked with deciphering the enigma, and his response was classic Verstappen: “Can be me, because I do not give a f*ck!” In those words, a portrait emerged – one of unapologetic pride, relentless determination, and a hilarious dig, rubbing salt on Perez’s wounds.
The pressure to keep up with the formidable Dutchman has been known to make or break careers, and Perez’s journey mirrors this narrative. And, Sergio Perez has seemingly acknowledged that some forces are simply unstoppable.
Sergio Perez accepts the unstoppable force, i.e. Max Verstappen
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As the dust settled after the Belgian GP, Perez faced the reality that his teammate had once again proven his indomitable prowess. Verstappen’s eighth consecutive victory was a masterclass in skill, strategy, and determination. Recovering from P6 on the starting grid, he executed a breathtaking ascent to the front, overtaking Perez on his way to securing yet another triumph.
In a post-race reflection, Perez faced the media with candid honesty. As Verstappen soared to victory, Perez recognized the futility of his efforts to thwart his teammate’s charge. Admitting the limitations of his control over the outcome, Perez conceded, “There was nothing I could have done there.” The Mexican driver’s words painted a picture of acceptance, a recognition that Verstappen’s skills had propelled him into a league of his own.
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What do you think about this equation between the teammates?