The controversy surrounded the second place of the Mexican pilot Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez during the Spanish Grand Prix of the 2022 season of the formula 1because while the man from Guadalajara returned to the top three following fourth place in the Miami Grand Prix, this time he did it yielding to team orders requested by Red Bull Racing.
In twice Pérez had to give up his position to his teammate Max Verstappen. The first when the Dutchman fell to fourth position following losing his RB18 in turn four at the height of lap 9, then in the final part when he went for a third pit stop for medium tireswhen the Mexican had the same compound, but with just two arrests and greater wear.
Red Bull considered that Verstappen had a better pace than Perez and was asked to consider this to avoid getting into a confrontation., a team order in disguise. The third man in the current drivers’ championship gave up position to keep Red Bull 1-2the second achieved by the team this year following the one obtained in Imola.
Crossing the finish line Verstappen approached Pérez’s car to thank him for the gesturebut on the team radio the Mexican asked for clarification of what happened in the race.
I’m happy for the team, but we have to talk later, “said the Mexican by radio communication that was broadcast on television.
Arriving at the podium he maintained his position that the result was what was important for the teamalthough he admitted there was a possibility of going for the victory.
“Yes, I think I was close to fighting for the win, but in the end it’s a great team result. I am happy regarding it”the Mexican pointed out before giving an explanation as to why he obeyed the team’s orders, which was related to the strategies in the pits where he had the most worn medium tire compared to Verstappen.
We were on different strategies on the tyres. I let Max pass at the beginning and then I thought that at that moment he might pass him and not lose crucial seconds for my strategy to work. In any case, it’s a good result for the team”, sentenced ‘Checo’.
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