Objective to improve Qualification
Two Red Bull doubles, one Ferrari double: the first three races of 2024 have recorded three clear verdicts, although the latest one to emerge in Australia is not ‘pure’ given that Max Verstappen had to retire due to a technical problem with the right rear brake. The two initial doubles, however, showed Sergio Perez carry out its task to perfection, that of exploiting the potential of the RB20, placing itself behind a three-time world champion.
In Melbourne Perez did not shine and also bowed to both McLarens, but to the Mexican driver there is no shortage of extenuating circumstances. Checo had qualified in third position, however, he started sixth due to a three-place penalty for impeding Nico Hulkenberg in Q1, a penalty for which his race engineer was also responsible. Then, during the race, a torn visor that got stuck on the bottom of the car caused Perez’s RB20 to lose 20 load points.
Helmut MarkoIn fact, he has no particular criticisms to address to Perez at the start of the season. When asked about the possibility of bringing Carlos Sainz back to Milton Keynes, the Austrian manager responded thus to the microphones of Austrian TV laola1: “Sainz’s form is there for all to see, but we must not forget that Perez also had three good races. His only weak point is qualifying, if he can improve it there is no need to look elsewhere in terms of drivers. The atmosphere within the team is also very good regarding its side of the garage.” Regarding Perez Marko’s future at the German newspaper Auto Motor und Sport added that: “At the beginning of the season I told him not to think about 2025, but to concentrate on his work. If he performs well, everything will go accordingly.”
