Since the back end of the 2022 season, we have witnessed signs of friction between Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. The Mexican felt hard done by Verstappen’s actions in Brazil. However, since then, the two have come out on multiple occasions, putting up a united front. Most assumed these actions and statements to the media were a PR gimmick forced by Red Bull to show unity within the team. However, the actions on the track painted a different picture. This is exactly why, after the Azerbaijan GP, Perez put this belief to bed, once and for all.

There have been signs of tension between the two, especially on the track, for some time now. Perez’s voicing his desire to beat his teammate to become world champion also added some fuel to the fire. However, speaking to SkySports, as quoted by Twitter user @Redbulletin, Perez shed more light on his relationship with the Dutchman.

“It’s a great relationship, between Max and myself, because, although not many people believe [it], we are very similar,” said Perez. “We have a life out of the sport and we are at home, we disconnect from it. [And] we are on track [we] come, try to do the best possible job, we try to beat each other.”

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Teams often experience these tumultuous periods between teammates when they deliver a championship-winning car. This scenario between Perez and Verstappen is similar. Especially because the Mexican is poised to beat his teammate, something he has communicated on multiple occasions.

Sergio Perez fires a stern warning toward Max Verstappen in his bid to the championship

Sergio Perez is driving a car worthy of winning the championship for the first time in his career. The Mexican does not want to let this golden opportunity go to waste and is feeling confident, especially after Brazil 2022. This is exactly what he communicated as well before the start of the season.

Perez said, “I’m here to be champion. That’s my goal. Maintaining a good relationship with the team is important, but there will be a time when I will think of myself. To be perfect. Against him, I can’t leave anything on the table. Max always maximizes the potential of the car, so if I go to 99.99%, it will not be enough.”

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The want to win and the ability to win are two completely different things. Perez definitely has the want, but does he have what it takes to beat Verstappen? The end of the 2023 season should reveal that. For now, everything hangs in the balance.