Sergio Perez will take on one of the biggest challenges in Formula 1 this season – battling Max Verstappen in a Red Bull car. Two different drivers have failed to live up to the team’s expectations over the last two years.

As a result, the players have lost their seats, and the Mexican is facing a similar challenge this season. However, Perez believes that his F1 experience is going to be a big weapon in the battle against Max Verstappen.

“You’re here [in F1] and when things don’t go well, pressure hits you hard. And when you are experienced and when you’ve been through it before, it just makes you focus on the right stuff.”

“Technically you develop a lot of skills as well throughout your career too. I just think I’m in a great point. The opportunity comes at a great point of my career and yep, it’s gonna work out well,” he said.

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Sergio Perez talks about his strength

The Mexican had a strong season last year and believes he can perform very well in a Red Bull beast. However, he is well aware of Verstappen’s strength throughout the weekend.

“I think Max, from what I’ve seen, he’s going to be very strong in qualifying. So he will be a massive benchmark in qualifying. My strength comes on Sunday, with racecraft and race pace.

“So I think that’s a pretty good match that hopefully delivers the maximum from the car,” said Checo.

The priority for Perez and Red Bull ahead of the season is to make sure that the driver is comfortable in the car. Once that is settled, it’s all on Checo and how he maneuvers himself through the grid driving the Honda-powered Red Bull.

Do you believe Perez will start challenging Verstappen right out the gate?