P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Horner: Red Bull can’t rely on competitive ‘pair’ like F1 rivals
Perez faced a disastrous weekend in Qatar, receiving three penalties for track limit violations that hindered his progress from the back of the grid, ultimately finishing 10th. He struggled to make it to Q3 in qualifying, marking the eighth time this year. A collision in the Sprint race forced him to start from the back in the grand prix, resulting in Max Verstappen clinching the championship. Red Bull team principal, Horner, believes Perez needs support and acknowledges his capabilities. Although Red Bull secured the Constructors’ Championship, Verstappen alone could still top the table. Horner desires Perez to finish second to achieve a Red Bull one-two finish, but acknowledges the team can’t rely on both drivers consistently performing. Perez’s struggles allowed McLaren to secure back-to-back double podiums, with Oscar Piastri impressing alongside Lando Norris. Horner emphasized the importance of winning both championships and wants Perez to regain his previous form. Perez benefitted from Lewis Hamilton’s incident with George Russell, maintaining a 30-point advantage in second place.
Source: Motorsport Week
