Can Pérez be a 'bad boy' and challenge Verstappen in 2023?
Mar.1 - Dr Helmut Marko admits that Sergio Pérez requires a "more docile" Formula 1 car compared to back-to-back world champion Max Verstappen.
It comes as Alex Albon, who lost his seat alongside Verstappen to Mexican Perez, alleged that Red Bull tunes its car in a "unique way" especially for the Dutchman.
"If you play Call of Duty, or a game like that, turn your sensitivity up to the highest it will go. That's what it's like to drive that car," he told The Players' Tribune.
In Bahrain last week, Perez confirmed: "Max can cope with a less stable rear end than I can.
"We both want a good front end. It's just a question of how stable the rear end can be. And certainly Max has been able to cope with a looser rear end than me."
Initially in 2022, Perez was much happier with Red Bull's car handling.
"We had a car last year in which Checo did very well at the beginning," Marko told Sky Deutschland.
Sergio Pérez driving the Red Bull RB19 during testing
"And then as it developed, Max was happier and happier. The difference is that Max loves a front end that really bites. Checo wants a more docile car.
"But it looks like we've found a solution," Red Bull's Marko added.
The team, however, may be very happy with Verstappen in a clear number 1 position, with Perez trailing a few tenths behind and willing to play a support role.
"There's not a chance Checo will be replaced by Daniel Ricciardo," former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan told OLBG.
"It's already a perfect scenario for Red Bull, as it was for Michael Schumacher and Eddie Irvine. I'm sure Checo is the same."
Former two-time champion Mika Hakkinen agrees that if Perez wants to try to win the title ahead of Verstappen, he will have to be a "bad boy" in 2023.
"What I mean is that he does what he is asked," the Finn told Unibet. "He's very submissive and will do whatever the team wants."
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Doubtful
Hmm Cheko gives nothing away but quietly keeps score. Remember he was instrumental in Max being in a position to be handed the 2021 wdc. His time will come.
No, which is why he kept his job this year
If he can compete and challenge Max, I’m sure he will. He needs to be more consistent and definitely needs to be in the top 3 for most races. That is what made Bottas such a successful team member.. It helped tremendously for MB to win the Constructors Championship so many times. Drivers Championship is fine but No Money.
"Checo needs to be in the top three, otherwise, from a strategic point of view, he will be of no help to the team. Max won last year's championship with very little input from Checo."
Sure, PER can challenge VER, if he wants to be escorted to the door by security. Checo has a good gig and he knows it. Second driver on an all conquering team is a good place to be.
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