Written by Sofia Costantino, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri
Are you ready to dive into the high-speed world of Formula One? Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, there's never been a better time to catch up with everything happening on track this year.
This article has got you covered, from the latest race results and driver standings to the biggest shocks and controversies. So buckle up and get ready to experience the thrill of the race like never before!
Mexico did not disappoint us at all! What a weekend it was, with a surprise weekend for the Ferrari drivers, from a 1-2 on quali day to 3-4 on Sunday’s race, a red flag race because of Magnussen’s crash, Perez’s chances of winning his home race dissipating on the very first curve, and another win from our favourite Dutchman, Max Verstappen. Let’s get into this catching up, so you’ll be all updated for the iconic Grand Prix of Brazil.
In the worst possible moment for Mexican driver Sergio “Checo” Pérez, he was out on the first corner of the GP at home, trying to turn fifth place on the grid into the lead, taking advantage of an extraordinary start, and the suction on the long straight, from the single-seaters ahead, finding himself beside pole-sitter Charles Leclerc, and Red Bull partner Max Verstappen, on the inside.
However, with no room for three, despite late braking, trying to take that first corner, he made contact with the Ferrari of the Monegasque driver — who had nowhere else to go, flung into the air, lost his way, and ended up retiring, due to irreparable damage to his single-seater.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for these things to happen in motorsports, and other sporting events, when the venue exaggerates its performance, due to the presence of an audience that not only encourages and cheers it, but practically demands the victory. It has happened many times before, and a clear and demonstrative example was that of Ayrton Senna. The legendary Brazilian rider took eight seasons to win in his very own country, in front of his beloved and enthusiastic fans.
‘Checo’ was looking for the glory of winning at home, and the redemption of a season that, after the first races, had become a nightmare for him due to its poor results, both in the qualifying stages and the races, especially considering that he has at his disposal the same Red Bull RB19 vehicle, which has Max Verstappen dominate and triumph 16 times, a single-seater considered by many to be one of the best in the history of the top category of world motorsport.
Much has been said, due to these poor results, the presence of the Guadalajara racer is in doubt for the next season, despite frequent statements by the director of his team, Christian Horner, who insists that he will remain in the team in the 2024 season, honouring his current contract.
Three fundamental reasons would be willing Perez to continue. First, the recognition within his team, who have the patience to wait for the mental recovery of a driver, much better than he shows at present. Second, the abundant financial support from local sponsors who do not hesitate to continue. Thirdly, most of the fans in North America are of Hispanic origin, who follow and attend F1 races from their locations in Miami, Texas, and soon, from Las Vegas.
Despite the same statements by the director of the Austrian team, the Briton emphasises that the runner-up is not necessary or exclusive to remain in the team, because after all it was not achieved in the two previous titles of Verstappen either. Losing that elusive second place to Lewis Hamilton would undoubtedly be a strong blow to the heart of Jalisco, and another reason for the impatience of the influential adviser Dr. Helmut Marko.
Sitting just 20 points ahead, the Mexican's luck has been the two consecutive races in which the seven-time champion has not scored (colliding with team-mate George Russell in Qatar, and a post-race disqualification in Austin). Otherwise, with second place in the US, repeated in Mexico City, they would be tied (238 units) with three races to go, with the next in Brazil this weekend, very much in favour of the Englishman and Mercedes, winners of six of the last eight races, including the latest edition of the race in 2022, with George Russell, the last of the German team.
