Max Verstappen is arguably the most in-form driver in F1 at the moment, but his start to 2023 has not been optimal. Yes, so far, we’ve only had two practice sessions where his real pace may not be on display yet, but it was evident that the Dutchman was struggling on the opening day of this season.
Verstappen’s teammate Sergio Perez on the other hand had a stellar opening day. Perez topped the timing charts during FP1 and finished just behind Fernando Alonso and Verstappen in FP2, and he is expected to be a challenger for the pole position on Saturday. Verstappen meanwhile, seemed to have some problem with the car, which he hopes will be resolved before he takes to the track in qualifying.
A reminder of all the times Perez helped Verstappen last season 👀 pic.twitter.com/8wWDNqRogU
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) November 13, 2022
After Verstappen’s dominant 2022 season, fans want to see the 25-year-old face some competition this year. If Red Bull does have the fastest car once again, fans are hoping that it is Perez who rises up to the challenge. Team principal Christian Horner, however, feels that Perez has to be very particular if he is to have any chance of challenging Verstappen for the crown.
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Here’s what Sergio Perez has to do to defeat Max Verstappen
As reported by GP Fans, Horner feels that Verstappen is the highest benchmark in Formula 1 at the moment. The Dutchman has broken multiple records at the young age of 25 and has surpassed the career of legends like Fernando Alonso.
The fact that Verstappen was told to let Checo back through but didn’t at the end of the race 💀 #BrazilGP
— WTF1 (@wtf1official) November 13, 2022
Perez, who is in his third year at Red Bull is already comfortable in the team according to Horner. The Guadalajara-born driver has to use his confidence to bring about his A-game if he stands any chance against a driver as good as Verstappen.
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Red Bull face looming threat from unforeseen rivals
During pre-season testing, Aston Martin were one of the teams that impressed the most. Alonso in particular, looked very comfortable behind the wheel of the AMR-23, which some feel will be very strong around the Bahrain International Circuit.
Alonso was among the top drivers during both FP1 and FP2, and even topped the chart in the latter session. Aston Martin’s huge jump forward has certainly been a surprise for many, but a very welcome one indeed.
Perez and Verstappen will be keeping one eye out for the Silverstone-based outfit’s cars, when they take to the circuit for qualifying ahead of Sunday’s Bahrain GP.
