P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The Mexican returned to the podium for the first time since the Italian Grand Prix in Las Vegas – ensuring he fulfilled Red Bull’s long-time ambition.
Sergio Perez, reflecting on his challenging year, expressed his pride in turning around his slump in form and securing second place in the Drivers’ Championship. After two wins in the first four races, Perez’s form declined during the European leg of the season, hindering his chances of fighting Max Verstappen for the title. Red Bull put pressure on Perez to secure second place in the standings, a feat they had never achieved in F1, with Lewis Hamilton as his main challenger. Perez entered the Las Vegas Grand Prix 32 points ahead of Hamilton, and despite finishing third, the 15 points were enough to secure his position as Hamilton only managed to score six points. Perez described the season as challenging but highlighted his ability to consistently fight at the top as the highlight of his year. He also noted that his choice of a bigger rear wing affected his race as he couldn’t break away from Charles Leclerc after regaining the lead.
