Pérez “didn’t expect” an attack from Leclerc in the last lap

Clearly, the last laps of the last Grands Prix are not going well for Sergio Pérez! Two weeks ago, in Brazil, the Mexican lost his place on the podium after a long battle with Fernando Alonso. In Las Vegas, again ! Although he did not lose his podium, “Checo” nevertheless gave up his second place to Charles Leclerc a few hectometers from the finish.

The outcome of a scenario that seemed almost too perfect for Sergio Pérez. Starting in the middle of the peloton on the grid, the driver Red Bull was caught up in the first lap incidents and had to pit very quickly. “The beginnings were very difficult, with a lot of damage. First we broke the front wing, and we found ourselves at the back of the grid, explained the six-time Grand Prix winner. Then, gradually, we overtook one by one and things went well, we had a very high pace during our first stint, which allowed us to get back into the race. »

First podium for Pérez since Italy!

With such a premature stop, Sergio Pérez was able to extend his stint and push his second stop back as far as possible... before a second safety car was deployed and allowed him to return to the pits. Coming out in second place, behind Leclerc but with fresher tires, the Mexican suddenly became a contender for victory... but did not resist against his teammate, Max Verstappen.

“I overtook Charles, but I couldn’t outrun himhe said. I just had a little too much angle on the ailerons, so my straight line speed was a little lower and I couldn't outrun him. Then Max arrived, he passed us both. » Sergio Pérez seemed to be heading towards a second place after Charles Leclerc gave up his position after a braking error at turn 12... but that was without taking into account the resilience of the Monegasque! 

“It was quite difficult with the gusts of wind that we had on several occasions. I ended up blocking a few times, but luckily I was able to stay in control. In the end, with Charles, I didn't expect it! He was seven tenths behind but in the braking zone he was there. Well done to him and Max! »

Third at the finish of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Sergio Pérez regains a podium which had eluded him since the Italian Grand Prix last September, and will be able to leave Nevada with the certainty of finishing second in the championship, and therefore vice-president. world champion for the first time in his career.

ALSO READ > Lost bet for Leclerc in Las Vegas: “Unlucky with the Safety Car”