Vamos Checo! Will Max let you win later?
Column
- GPblog.com
For weeks, Sergio Perez has been talking about nothing else. As soon as the Mexican Grand Prix was brought up, a twinkle appeared in his eyes, a smile on his face. Yes, there - with his fans in the stands - Perez wanted to win. A dream, he even called it.
How would Perez have slept last night? Would he still have been dreaming or has realism sunk in? Fourth place on the grid is anything but a hopeless starting position. But his car did not run as desired on Saturday. There were electrical problems. The ultimate lap, he did not drive it. Fourth then. Behind Max Verstappen - as almost always - and also behind two fast Mercedes cars. It will be one hell of a challenge.
Glutton
Of course, it could just be that Perez has moved up a few places after the first lap. That Red Bull Racing also ends up taking the first two positions in Mexico. The car is fast enough for it. But then there is Max. Always Max. He has already indicated he doesn't want to hand out presents. Max is no Santa. He wants to win. Always. Especially now that he is on the record hunt for the most wins in a season. Checo is a nice teammate, he always says. But then, to give him a Grand Prix win just like that? Why should he?
Well, for instance, because Perez pulled over for you in Barcelona at Red Bull's request. Or for his heroic defensive tactics in last year's final Grand Prix, which ultimately helped Verstappen win the world title. Or for helping Perez take firm control of that second spot in the championship? Or because you can also grab that record of most wins in Brazil or Abu Dhabi.
Happy
Reasons enough. But imagine, you are Checo Perez. A proud guy. Bloved in Mexico. A hero even. Someone with ambitions. A driver who thinks he can beat Verstappen on merit. Imagine, you are that man. You're driving in second place, behind Verstappen. And then in the closing stages of the race, Verstappen goes full on the brakes, to let you pass him. To give you a Grand Prix you didn't actually deserve to win. Are you really happy then? Does that give you satisfaction? Was that ultimate dream?
Good luck later today, Checo!