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Perez the best option for Red Bull? Chandhok believes Mexican was the best choice
- GPblog.com
Max Verstappen will have a new and experienced teammate in Sergio Perez in 2021. Since the departure of Daniel Ricciardo, the Dutchman has had to do most of the competing at Red Bull Racing, but Karun Chandhok believes that time is now over.
In the past two years, Verstappen has had no problem with his teammate. It's great for his fans to see Verstappen so dominant, but it's not ideal for the Dutchman himself or for Red Bull Racing. After unsuccessful attempts with Alexander Albon and Pierre Gasly, Red Bull have now opted for experience.
Second driver at Red Bull
''Of all the drivers available, he (Sergio Perez) was the best choice. The loss of Daniel Ricciardo has really become apparent at Red Bull in recent seasons. Both Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon could not compete with Max Verstappen and Ricciardo could,'' Chandhok told Motorsport.com.
The Sky Sports reporter highlights the Mexican's great season in 2020. ''The fact that he had to miss two races last year because of COVID-19 and still finished fourth in the championship, with another drop out in Abu Dhabi... That says a lot about his ability to consistently rack up a lot of points.''
The arrival of Perez
For Red Bull Racing, that will be the most important thing. Albon and Gasly both failed to really get close to their teammate. Verstappen was often on his own in the race, as the two youngsters failed to qualify anywhere near him. More can be expected from Perez.
''For Red Bull it is so that Perez does not have to beat Verstappen. For the team it is important that he qualifies close to them and that he can stay five seconds behind them in the races. Then they can use two cars to influence Mercedes' strategy. If Perez can do that, he may have some years ahead of him at Red Bull,'' concluded the former F1 driver.