Sergio Perez: I gave all my strength to this win

Sergio Pérez started second in the rain at Sinapura, beating Charles Leclerc at the start of the race to take his second win of the season, calling it the best of his career after the finish…

Q: Sergio, this is your fourth win. I’m sure you consider her one of the best, given the pressure from Charles…
Sergio Perez: Yes, this is my best performance. I controlled the course of the race, which was not easy. The last few laps were tight. I didn’t think about it in the car, but as I exited the cockpit, I felt my strength leave me. I gave everything for this win.

Q: Now the championship title is postponed to Japan…
Sergio Perez: I think Max and Honda are happy to confirm the title in Japan. Honda would be very happy.

Q: For the first time in your career, you led the race from start to finish. What are you feeling now?
Sergio Perez: Feels good. I got off to a good start, took the lead and confidently controlled the situation on the intermediate tyres. I followed Charles’s pace and added as he accelerated. It was important not to load the rubber so you can ride as long as possible.

Frankly, I expected the track to dry up sooner. I think if George hadn’t gone on slicks there would have been a lot more gatherings.

The race was really tough. First the most important factor was controlling the pace on the intermediate tires, then it was necessary to stay on track on slicks at the beginning of the segment when the conditions were very difficult.

I think many do not understand how difficult it was for us. It is very easy to make a mistake in such circumstances. In some places it was very wet and how much. I’m glad I was able to finish it. Well, it was a lot of fun to win the race.

Question You’ve already said that you think this victory is the best thing for you in Formula 1. What makes it so special?
Sergio Perez: The thrill of the race. It was very difficult to keep Charles behind, especially after the restart. It was not easy to warm up the tires, half of the track was dry, the other half was more suitable for medium tires and we were riding on slicks. It was important not to make the slightest mistake and to control the lead over Charles, who was very fast in the first segment of the race.

This win is special to me. In the past races I have had problems on more than one occasion and the press in Formula 1 reacts very vividly to all your mistakes. Maybe it’s because I’m Mexican, but if I’m not on the podium in two races in a row, everyone is writing that this is my worst season and Red Bull should fire me. I am happy with this victory and ready to continue in the same spirit.