Get ready for a thrilling race recap!
- Sergio Perez shines at Spa, securing a front-row start.
- Helmut Marko is full of praise for Perez’s improved performance.
- McLaren’s wet weather struggles helped Perez’s starting position.
- Max Verstappen’s grid penalty shakes up the race dynamics.
Sergio Perez secured a P2 starting position in the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa, just in the nick of time. The Mexican driver, racing for Red Bull, benefited greatly as McLaren’s wet weather struggles allowed him to advance.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, was optimistic about Perez’s chances, stating things are ‘looking better’ for the driver than they have in a while. Marko even believes a podium finish is within reach for Perez.
Perez’s starting position improved because McLaren, Red Bull’s latest strong competitor, could only manage P5 and P6 in the wet qualifying session. This, combined with Max Verstappen’s 10-place grid penalty, means Perez had a prime spot on the front row beside Charles Leclerc.
Max Verstappen, despite finishing P1 in qualifying and being significantly faster than Leclerc, faced a 10-place grid penalty and will start at P11. Marko praised Verstappen’s performance, especially his strategic use of two new sets of intermediates for Q3.
Marko was confident about their setup, noting changes made during the third practice and the necessary grip they had in the wet conditions. He believes Perez could stay competitive and that Verstappen has the pace to overtake and finish on the podium.
Perez, addressing the media, maintained his focus on securing a good result at Spa. He emphasized that each race is a new opportunity and downplayed the heightened scrutiny on his recent performances. ‘The way I see it, the race is what really counts,’ he said.
This weekend’s race dynamics are intriguing, as Verstappen’s penalty and McLaren’s underperformance in the wet create a fascinating opportunity for Perez and Red Bull.
This race at Spa promises high drama and excitement, with Perez looking to capitalize on every opportunity.
Source: Planetf1
