Perez terms 2018 stressful year, welcomes Lance to Force India

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Perez terms 2018 stressful year, welcomes Lance to Force India
Perez talks to reporters at Yas Marina Circuit.

Abu Dhabi - Sergio admits it was an intense season mentally

By Ashwani Kumar

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Published: Sun 25 Nov 2018, 9:38 PM

Last updated: Sun 25 Nov 2018, 11:42 PM

Force India driver Sergio Perez said 2018 season is his 'most complicated' one with the team slipping into administration following financial instability and getting a new lease of life through a consortium led by Lawrence Stroll.
"It was an intense season mentally with everything I had to go through - administration process of the team, negotiations and so on. I ended up in a position which isn't ideal for a racing driver. Considering the mental stress I had throughout the season, the outcome has been fantastic. We are the only mid-field car to score a podium," Perez said at Yas Marina Circuit noting his third place finish at 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Perez termed months leading to administration 'complicated'.
"At the same time, I had to drive and perform in best way for my team. It was never easy to do that. We went through a very difficult period but I am happy with the outcome. We are very far from the top three teams but our target is to move as close as popular. Everyone is excited and looking forward," he said hoping the new investments will help Force India climb the ladder.
In first of the moves for new season, Esteban Ocon will make way to Williams' racer Lance Stroll.
Perez is eagerly looking forward to his new teammate.
"I don't know much about Lance Stroll as a driver. In Formula One, it is difficult to know about a driver from another team. Lance had a poor season as Williams had lots of trouble. The kid definitely has talent. He has been on the podium. He is coming into a great team with one of the best engineers in the world. So he will be in great hands to deliver his full potential."
When asked if Lance being Lawrence's son changes dynamics at Force India, he said: "It's in the interest of everyone that both cars are as strong as possible."
Perez said he never shared a 'great relationship' with Esteban but defended his teammate in Max Verstappen crash episode.
"It's never great to see that kind of incident. It was a difficult position for both of them. Esteban tried to match the racer leader, who didn't give any room to avoid contact. Esteban couldn't do anything as there was no space. Lots of people have been very harsh on him. He is a very good driver. He made a mistake and knows that. I feel Max also did a mistake and could have avoided an accident," Perez said.
Meanwhile, Esteban is set to be Mercedes reserve and test driver for the next season.
"Yes this is my last race with Force India but not the last Formula One race," Esteban said.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com
 


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