© Getty ImagesCheco On His Season So FarThe Mexican Bull talks openly about 2022
Thefirsthalfoftheseasonhasbeenmanic,13racesoverfourcontinentsinjustfourmonths,sotheTeamanddriversarelookingforwardtoalittlebreakbeforereturningforSpaattheendofAugust.
But before Sergio Pérez was able to jump on a plane home, we sat down with him and asked him a few questions about his season so far and how he feels about the second half of the season…
One Of The Many Highs Of The Season So Far© Getty Images
Q: It seems a long time ago now, but the double DNF in Bahrain at the season opener was a tough one for the entire Team to take. Did you think at that point we’d be where we are now, top of the Constructors’ Championship as well as first and third in the Drivers’ Championship?
SP: I couldn’t have imagined we would be where we are at that point. It’s great to have the Team where it is at the moment, but we cannot take anything for granted.
Q: Due to the new regulations, we can see the RB18 is very different to the RB16B in just looks, but has it been difficult to adapt to the new car for this year?
SP: The RB18 is a very different car to last years, but I’m much more comfortable in this car as you can see with the performances and consistency that we’ve had so far this season.
Q: Talking of performances – we can probably guess – but what’s been your highlight of the season so far?
SP: Monaco! It was a dream come true to win in Monaco, to have that in my pocket feels great.
The Highlight Of The Season So Far© Getty Images
Q: Another performance that stood out for the Team was Imola, it was the first one-two finish for the Team in six years (And the first of three so far this year). How important was that result for you and the Team?
SP: After the start of the season, it was very important for the Team, but it’s more important to keep pushing and aim to get a couple more.
Q: As we’re now entering silly season in terms of driver contracts, was it essential for you to have your contract extended before the merry-go-round started?
SP: It’s good to have something already and it’s good to have a plan, it’s great to be working with the Team.
I feel much more settled this year, I’m happy in the Team, I’m much more comfortable.
Best.Team.Ever.© Getty Images
The Traditional Helmet Pat© Getty Images
Q: There are some great races coming up in the second half of the season. Which of them are you looking forward to?
SP: I’m looking forward to going back to Japan after not being there for three seasons. I’m also looking forward to Austin and Mexico. And Zandvoort – The Dutch fans are amazing – so looking forward to all of those.
Q: It’s been an unprecedented season with 13 races before the summer break, how are you feeling about having a bit of a break?
SP: I’m looking forward to some rest, it’s been an intense season, but you can only disconnect for a week or so and then back into it. We’ve got a lot of work to do because the second half of the season is going to be very intense. We have to keep delivering.
Q: Thank you Checo, and finally, if you could give yourself a score out of 10 on your season so far, what would it be?
SP: 7/10
These Boots Were Made For Racing (And Winning)© Getty Images
