Perez cites two reasons why he is judged more harshly than Russell

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Perez lashes out at critics Russell crash
29 September 2023 at 07:07
Last update 29 September 2023 at 08:40
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  • Toby McLuskie

The Japanese Grand Prix was one to quickly forget for Sergio Perez. The Red Bull Racing driver was involved in several incidents and had to abandon his race early. According to Perez, the criticism that followed is disproportionate to the criticism other Formula 1 drivers receive for similar actions.

Perez cited the example of George Russell, who crashed on the last lap of the Singapore GP, giving away his podium finish. "He crashed on the last lap fighting for second place, but nobody talked about it. When it happens at Red Bull, there are immediately three hundred media saying you have to be replaced," he explained during an event at the Ford Mexico campus.

Perez: 'The fact that I am Mexican has influence'

However, according to Perez, who is second behind Max Verstappen in the F1 championship, there is more at play than the fact that he drives for Red Bull. "This kind of thing happens a lot in F1 and that's how it works in a team environment, but I think it also has a lot of influence that I am Mexican," the Red Bull driver added.

On his nationality, Perez is very proud. "I am very lucky to be Mexican and to have all this support that very few drivers have had in the history of the sport. I am proud to represent my country all over the world," said the 33-year-old driver from Guadalajara.