P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen has come to the aid of Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez, insisting the some people have been “very harsh” on him throughout the year.
Max Verstappen believes that Sergio Perez faced unfair treatment during the 2024 F1 season and defended his team-mate’s abilities, stating that Perez is “not an idiot.” Verstappen expressed sympathy for Perez, citing tough talks between Perez and Red Bull following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While Perez remains determined not to give up his seat, there is speculation that he may need to make way for Liams Lawson. Despite being given a reprieve until the end of the year in August, Perez’s performances deteriorated towards the end of the season, scoring 21 points in the last 10 races compared to Verstappen’s 152. Verstappen attributed Perez’s struggles to the challenging RB20 car, acknowledging the difficulties faced by the entire team. After the season concluded in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen confirmed his empathy towards Perez, acknowledging the harsh criticism directed at his team-mate.
