Nico Rosberg sympathizes with Sergio Perez’s ‘difficult situation’ at Red Bull
Nico Rosberg is concerned with Sergio Perez's current state against Max Verstappen.
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Nico Rosberg [L], Sergio Perez [R] (image via IMAGO)
Sergio Perez is having a rough season in 2023. The 34-year-old has not managed to live up to expectations as he fell way behind teammate Max Verstappen. The Mexican driver is still struggling to bounce back from the disappointing string of results. Now, former F1 champion Nico Rosberg has raised concern over Perez’s present state at Milton Keynes.
The German driver faced a similar challenge against Lewis Hamilton during the start of the Turbo hybrid era with Mercedes. As such, Rosberg understands the frustrating situation of Sergio Perez. The 2016 F1 champion pointed out that it is a tough situation for Checo as he continues to struggle against Verstappen. Moreover, the added pressure from the media further makes it more difficult.
Nico Rosberg told Sky Sports, “It is a real pain to be in that position because you do not know what you are doing wrong, while your teammate goes much faster in the same car. Everyone is watching you, social media is very critical, you already know memes and all that, and it really is a horrible situation to be in.”
The former Mercedes driver believed that the mood and negativity further added to the performance slump. As such, Nico Rosberg was adamant that it was a tough time for Sergio Perez. He said, “The negativity and all that, and then you drive even slower. Keep going, but it’s a really difficult situation.”
Nico Rosberg believes Max Verstappen’s results further pressurize Sergio Perez
Sergio Perez’s underwhelming 2023 season is in stark contrast to Max Verstappen. The Dutch driver won his third consecutive title this season with a staggering 14 race wins so far. As such, Rosberg believes that the pressure to perform on the same level as Verstappen leads to a worse state for the Mexican driver. So much so, that the German insisted that it had become a downward spiral.
Nico Rosberg was convinced that Perez further feels the heat after sessions when he is way off his world champion teammate. The former F1 champion stated, “I think the biggest problem is Max’s level. It is very hard, and when you start being ‘ hit ’ over and over you start to have a downward spiral. You get off the track and you’re afraid of looking like an idiot again being so far from your teammate.”
Certainly, Sergio Perez is in a tough spot at Red Bull this season. The 34-year-old has a contract with the Austrian team for next year. However, rumors have already been circulating about his future. As such, Checo must get the most out of the remaining races this season to prove his worth to the critics and his team. Although, this is easier said than done.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2353 Articles Published)