Perez wants to compete with Verstappen: 'I can become world champion'

In 2021, Perez's move to Red Bull Racing gave him his first opportunity with a top team. This fulfilled a dream for the 32-year-old driver, who had hitherto spent his entire F1 career in the middle and sub-top. Now Perez could compete for victories and eventually world titles.

Perez wants to be world champion

Whereas in 2021 Perez mainly had to get used to the team and had a supporting role to Verstappen, he got off to a much better start in 2022. Whereas the Dutchman was forced out twice in three races due to bad luck, Perez stayed closer to Charles Leclerc in the battle for the world title. Asked if he believed in the world title he still dreams of, the answer was therefore clear: ''Definitely.''

''Because I was fairly comfortable. And I was as quick as anyone throughout the weekend, constantly. And things were coming naturally at the time, so yeah, it was certainly... I did feel like I was in the battle,'' Perez told GP Racing Magazine.

Chasing Verstappen

However, the updates to the RB18 did not work in Perez's favour. Whereas Verstappen was gaining confidence in his car, Perez was losing touch. Perez understands that the team is fully geared up for Verstappen after his world title and knows he will have to work even harder to get the team on his side. He is happy to take on that battle, though.

''It’s not easy to beat him. But I’ve got to keep trying. I’ve got to keep improving. And I believe I can do it. I just have to make myself more comfortable. Like I was in the beginning of the year. And I’ve shown I can do it,'' the Mexican concluded.