Pérez returns to form with P2 qualifying finish at Spa, Belgian GP
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
Perez: 'It's not like I forgot how to drive' after strong Belgian GP qualifying.
SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium – In a significant comeback, Sergio Perez clinched a position in the top three during the Belgian Grand Prix qualifying, offering a glimpse of restored confidence that started building back at Silverstone. This newfound assurance sets the stage for Perez's best qualifying result since April's Chinese Grand Prix.
Perez's performance sees him starting third on the grid, as penalized teammate Max Verstappen drops to 11th due to engine constraints. In the absence of Verstappen at the front, this race unfolds as a critical opportunity for Perez; he seeks to cut the 108-point deficit that has grown over the past seven races.
Reflecting on his current state of mind, Perez addressed media speculations:
"It's not like I forgot how to drive," Perez asserted. He emphasized the importance of harnessing the potential of his car, a challenge many drivers face. With confidence notably shaken by Q1 exits in both Great Britain and Hungary, Perez spoke of finding new strength. "The team's focus and my own are on what needs doing—racking up points," he added.
As summer break approaches, so do internal discussions about Perez's future at Red Bull. Yet, he remains unfazed, stressing a long-term perspective:
"Honestly, from my point of view, it doesn’t change anything," said Perez. "It's about riding the waves and seeing where we end up in Abu Dhabi."
Perez is unwavering in his belief that each race presents a new opportunity, regardless of past results. The Belgian circuit, with its unpredictable demands, sets the stage for potential triumph or additional struggle in an ever-challenging season:
"Tomorrow’s another day to prove myself—it’s what really counts," said Perez, reflecting on the nature of Formula One. "If things don’t go well here, there’s another chance in Zandvoort."
As the spotlight hones in on Spa-Francorchamps, Perez is resolute—poised for a strategic bout to reclaim his standing, he aims to harness both car and confidence in a pursuit of redemption on race day.
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