Perez ambitious for home race: 'A podium finish would be special'

Perez hasn't been on the podium since race five in the Formula 1 season. He also had a difficult weekend in the United States, finishing last out of the top four teams (aside from Lewis Hamilton, who retired). This included being behind pit lane start George Russell. Perez is contracted to drive for Red Bull in the 2025 Formula 1 season but there is doubt about his future.

Perez had similar pressure 12 months ago, but crashed at the start of the race. He saw a chance to take the lead but went for an optimistic move around the outside. This time, Perez wants to keep a lid on it. 

"Mexico is the biggest weekend of the season for me and every year it seems to get bigger. Even in Austin I felt like I was at home, so I think this week might be a little crazy! The important thing is to be able to shut out the noise off track and focus on the job in hand," Perez said.

Perez has clear aims: "Ultimately, the special thing for me would be to deliver another podium for my fans and my country, at home. The car was coming to us a little over the weekend in the US, but there’s still a lot we need to understand."

Perez wants to make Mexico smile

In the United States, Perez came no further than seventh place, well behind teammate Max Verstappen. "I was struggling a little with balance and we need to iron out those issues to be competitive on a very different track in Mexico City. I will do everything I can to make my country smile come Sunday evening."

This article has been created in collaboration with Ludo van Denderen