Sergio Perez Underplays Max Verstappen’s Comeback Capabilities While Naming His Main Challengers in Miami: “At the Moment..”

Because of Red Bull‘s dominant performance in RB19, the duel between their drivers Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen is the source of most drama these days. With no one else to challenge them, it is only growing intense race by race. But the Mexican driver isn’t expecting many problems from the 2x champ in the Miami Grand Prix, although Verstappen is Perez’s no.1 competitor.

In the Qualifying, Perez went on to take the pole while boosting the championship hopes. On the other hand, his teammate-rival Max Verstappen ended the session in ninth after failing to set a time in Q3. The Dutchman, however, has a form when it comes to scything his way through the field and ending up on the podium. Therefore, it is expected that Verstappen will find his way back to second place and challenge Perez. 

But when asked about who his challengers are during the post-qualifying press conference, Perez said, “At the moment, these two guys of course,” while pointing to the two Spaniards Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz to his side. He further added: “I’m mainly focusing on getting a good start and managing the first stint. I think that would help immensely. It will be a long race and a lot can still happen.” [Translated using Google]

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Although Perez doesn’t see his teammate as the biggest competitor in Miami, the stats are hinting that he should. 

Max Verstappen says Miami win ‘not impossible’ despite starting ninth

Verstappen was the pole favorite but he made an error in Q3, which cost him big. He pulled out of the track and returned to the garage in the hope that his second and final attempt at the session would be enough to top the timesheets. But Charles Leclerc’s late crash brought the session to an abrupt end, ruining Verstappen’s carefully laid plans. 

Despite the setback, Verstappen, who won the maiden Miami race last year, is not giving up hope. “A podium, for sure, but I want to win, so this is not great. (Winning is) not impossible, but it’s not going to be easy,” he said speaking to Sky Sports after qualifying. Judging by the times produced in Q1 and Q2, Max Verstappen once looked like the man to beat in Miami. He was 0.4s faster than others on average. Also, the reigning Champion is known as the comeback king for a reason!

Watch this story: Will Max Verstappen Retire Early from F1?

If Perez finishes the Miami GP with a win, he will take over the lead in the championship. Do you think the Mexican driver can win in Miami?