Sergio Pérez: “Of course there is more pressure” at McLaren

The mission will not be an easy task. Sergio Pérez, author of several podiums aboard a modest Sauber last year, is preparing to begin his first season as a regular driver with McLaren. In addition to now being a member of one of the best teams in the world, the young Mexican, 23, will have the heavy task of replacing Lewis Hamilton, 2008 world champion and emblematic figure of the Woking team.

“Of course there is more pressure now”, concedes Sergio Pérez to Speed ​​Week. “ But I have no problem with that. If you can't handle the pressure, you shouldn't sign for McLaren.", he decides. However, by his own admission, the Mexican will not fly to Melbourne, where the first Grand Prix of the season is being held, in the best conditions, after mixed pre-season testing. “I would have liked to collect more information before leaving for Australia”, admits Sergio Pérez. ?Some days it was cold and it was very difficult to get to know the car. But I don't know anyone on the pit line who had trouble-free winter testing.", nuance the new McLaren recruit. « So it’s the same for everyone, and not a disadvantage for us.”