Horner wants Perez to fight for the title against Verstappen
Christian Horner stated that he would be happy if one of his two drivers became the world champion at the end of the season, regardless of whether it's Max Verstappen or Sergio Pérez.
This season, Sergio Pérez seems closer than ever to Max Verstappen. If last season was sometimes more difficult, his start to the 2022 season is simply magnificent. Close to the pace of the reigning world champion, sometimes even ahead like in Monaco or in qualifying in Jeddah, the Mexican impresses.
He is so impressive that a question is already being asked: if Pérez maintains this level of performance throughout the season, will Red Bull prevent him from challenging Verstappen for the title?
Christian Horner seems to have already provided a partial answer. When questioned on the matter, the Red Bull boss is already leaving the door open for a title for the driver who was supposed to play a supporting role, without favoring the house prodigy Max Verstappen.
« It doesn’t matter which of the two becomes world champion. Of course, the constructors’ standings are extremely important. But whether it’s Max or Checo, they are both Red Bull drivers, and they both have the same chance ». Words that will need to be proven, but it leaves open the possibility that, if Pérez is able to do it, the Mexican could contend for the title of world champion at the end of the season, without being forced to let Verstappen win.
Horner also praised Pérez’s great form at the start of 2022. Checo is in the form of his career, he is doing an excellent job. And it’s not just once. I mean, we saw his pole position in Jeddah. And he is really in great shape. It’s fantastic for us. But both drivers need to work together. […] I think he is in a great moment right now, his confidence is high, he is driving very well. And the gap in lap times between him and Max is much, much closer.
A Mexican form that is highly valuable in the fight against Ferrari, according to Horner. Because Ferrari had the fastest car, certainly in qualifying, in the race it was more uncertain, but they are very tough opponents and we need to work together to ensure that both drivers are in front of them.
Next appointment in two weeks in Baku, where Sergio Pérez won his first victory in the Red Bull team. Will the Mexican be able to repeat such a performance this year? Answer on Sunday evening.
