Pérez: “I want to beat my teammate, but we need respect between us”

If there is one driver who appreciates the warm atmosphere of the Mexican Grand Prix more than others, it is Sergio Pérez (Force India). The native of the country, currently 7th in the Drivers' standings with 86 points, will be supported by an entire population this weekend. “It’s a race I’ve been thinking about since the start of the year”, he admitted at a press conference on Thursday. “It comes rather late in the season, but at the right time. The atmosphere and energy displayed by all the fans is remarkable. I want to give the best of myself to please them. »

Even if he may benefit from unwavering support from the public, Sergio Pérez will have to be wary of his teammate Esteban Ocon, which dominated him in the last two events in Suzuka (Japan) and Austin (United States). “Recently, we knew that the priority lay in maintaining fourth place in the Manufacturers' standings. It's going well (91 points ahead of Williams, 5th) », explains the Mexican, as if to justify the non-aggression pact with his French colleague.

The leaders of the Force India team banged their fists on the table after the clash of Belgium ; since then, Sergio Pérez and Esteban Ocon cannot attack each other. “We have to regain their trust. We have to show the bosses that we can run without problems. It's obvious we had a bad relationship, Baku (Azerbaijan) to Spa (Belgium). But, I met one-on-one with Esteban, and we talked. Since then, everything has changed. The climate between the two of us, as well as with the engineers, is pleasant. The two camps in the garage work together, and it's excellent. Obviously, I want to beat my teammate but we need respect between us, which is in place again”, is satisfied Sergio Pérez.

After having wisely followed the orders of his superiors, Sergio Pérez could finally do battle with his teammate in Mexico. "I haven't heard that we could fight, but it's likely we'll get permission here." » Both Force Indias received some aerodynamic improvements on this occasion. “I think the track will suit us well. We will aim for a good result this weekend. »

Finally, the return of F1 in Mexico, a month after a devastating earthquake that killed more than 200 people, will be a special event for the local pilot. “These last few weeks have been very difficult for the whole country, not just in Mexico. What happened was terrible. But this race will be very special for the fans, who will hopefully have a moment of joy and pleasure that they deserve after this disaster. »