Max Verstappen highlighted that Red Bull must prioritize their car’s development before making any decisions regarding Sergio Perez’s future. The recent Belgian GP was filled with drama, as Hamilton ultimately claimed victory after Russell’s disqualification for breaking the car’s minimum weight requirement. Despite starting from 11th position, Perez managed to finish fourth, while Verstappen, starting from third, was pushed back to seventh by other drivers.
During a post-race interview, Max Verstappen was asked about Sergio Perez’s future with the team after the summer break. Verstappen refrained from giving a personal opinion, stating that the meeting likely focused on evaluating Perez’s performance. He emphasized that Perez’s fate is an internal matter and that he is solely focused on his own path within the team.
Furthermore, Verstappen expressed that the team’s primary concern should be the car’s performance, rather than Perez. He believed that their focus should be on improving and refining the car to achieve better results in races. Verstappen observed that the car lacked proper balance in the recent Hungarian Grand Prix, emphasizing that internal decisions about drivers are important but should take a backseat to enhancing the car’s performance.
Max Verstappen stated that he does not believe Sergio Perez hindered his performance, as Perez was simply focused on driving his own race and doing his best. Verstappen commended the team’s decision-making and stated that Perez’s early retirement would not have made a significant difference. He valued Perez’s performance during the race, despite losing positions, and stressed that improving the car should take precedence over concerns about specific race situations involving teammates.
Verstappen explained that the team’s primary objective should be solely focused on the car, especially during the summer break. Red Bull must concentrate on enhancing the car’s performance, as it is the most crucial task at hand. Additionally, Verstappen expressed his positive opinion of Perez’s overall performance during the weekend, highlighting his contribution to the team.
In conclusion, Max Verstappen emphasized that Red Bull’s first priority should be improving their car, rather than fixating on their drivers. Verstappen remains optimistic about the second half of the season, believing that Red Bull will make a comeback. His ability to gain an additional 12 points to defend his title is seen as crucial for the future stages of the season.
