Sergio Perez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing speaks with the media after qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 30, 2024 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Jayce Illman/Getty Images)
Sergio Perez said he was relieved as he approaches the conclusion of what has been an abysmal 2024 season and was optimistic about finishing on a positive note at the final round in Abu Dhabi. Speaking to media, including Sportskeeda, after the Qatar GP, the Mexican driver expressed hope that the improved pace of the RB20 could help him secure a strong result and bring some solace after a year to forget.
Scoring just 152 points across 23 races, Perez has endured one of his most dismal campaigns in Formula 1. Struggling to unlock the full potential of the RB20, he has fallen 277 points behind teammate Max Verstappen, who secured his fourth title with ease. His underwhelming performances have been marked by numerous Q1 eliminations in qualifying and race finishes outside the top five, leaving him a disappointing eighth in the drivers’ standings. His struggles have also drawn criticism for costing Red Bull the constructors’ championship, with the team likely to finish third.
