Only 15 points in the world championship points table separate Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen. The Mexican out-qualified his teammate for the third time in the season. The race win in Monaco and the extended contract translates to Perez not playing second fiddle to Verstappen. And with no favorites in the Red Bull paddock, both drivers have an equal chance of winning the championship.

However, Perez is focusing on the greater goal and not on the individual title right now. Checo, speaking to the press post-qualifying diverted attention to exactly where Red Bull would want, toward attacking Ferrari. And he feels, along with Verstappen, they can put pressure on the Ferrari F1-75 of Charles Leclerc.

Speaking with Sky Italia, Perez said, “Starting second here is good. Pass the race? I think we’re honestly close. It will be a long race. It’s nice to have both Red Bulls among Ferraris. We can put pressure on Charles” (Translated by Google). 

Read More: Sergio Perez Valiantly Trumps Red Bull No.1 Max Verstappen With Latest F1 Streak

The Red Bull men have incredible speed as well to match the Ferraris and especially on the main straight. And that Perez is confident of his chances in the long race.

However, Perez did not shy away from complimenting Leclerc’s pace in qualifying, as he missed out on pole, “Charles is driving really well. It seems that Ferrari when he puts it all together manages to put an extra gear in Q3. My ride was not ideal for contrails. Maybe I could have done more, but not enough for pole,” said Perez.

Now it’s up to both Perez and Verstappen to take the lead away from Leclerc and bring home maximum points.

Sergio Perez will get the preference as admitted by Horner

In Baku, Christian Horner commented on criticism from Verstappen’s father regarding Max not getting the preference in Monaco. Horner quickly dismissed the claim and stated how pitting Max first would’ve hurt his chances instead of helping him.

Horner also discussed the team’s footing on preference. He said, “The No 1 driver is the driver that’s ahead, it’s as simple as that.” And according to this statement, Red Bull will strategize with Perez in focus for the Azerbaijan GP race.

Watch This Story: Why Michael Schumacher And Rubens Barrichello Wore Red Wigs In 2000

This could translate to another win for Perez and make it his second in the row. This will also give the Mexican a firmer grip on the championship fight ahead of the season yet to come.