Horner keeps faith in Perez: 'Needs an arm around his shoulder'

F1 News

Christian Horner expresses support for Red Bull driver Sergio Perez
10 July 2023 at 10:55
Last update 10 July 2023 at 11:13
  • Kada Sarkozi
  • Editor

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has failed to qualify for Q3 in the past five qualifying sessions, while Max verstappen 's RB19 has finished in pole position in all those weekends. These disappointing performances have caused concern among his team boss, Christian Horner, who is striving for perfection with his team.

Horner acknowledged that Perez seems to be out of form at the moment and he is determined to support him and get him back on track. The experienced team boss realises that the mental aspect of racing is crucial. "I think he is the type of person who just needs an arm around his shoulder and for you to work with him. That's what we do, we support him. We know he can do it, we know he will get there again, and we are trying to make sure it happens as soon as possible."

Perez has shown he is capable of running impressive races and scoring valuable points for the team. Qualifying, however, is proving to be a stumbling block for the Mexican driver. For now, Max Verstappen manages to single-handedly hold the honour in the constructors' championship. Even without Perez's points, the Austrian racing stable would be first in the championship.

Ricciardo in the Red Bull

Red Bull reserve driver Daniel Ricciardo will get behind the wheel of the RB19 to run a Pirelli tyre test this week. Horner is happy to see the Australian back in a Red Bull: "It's great to see him back in a Red Bull car and see where he stands, both in terms of speed and mentally and physically. And also to get his feedback on the car, so I think it's a good opportunity for him to get behind the wheel of a car that has just won the British Grand Prix."