Perez: Beating Button Is My Only Target at McLaren
Sergio Perez has admitted his focus is on outperforming Jenson Button, as McLaren's 2013 car leaves him out of contention for race wins.
Sergio Perez has made clear that beating Jenson Button is his main objective for the remainder of the 2013 Formula One season. The Mexican driver, in his first year with McLaren, said the team's lack of competitiveness means he cannot target victories, so his focus is on outperforming his world champion teammate.
Perez, 23, has faced criticism from Button over his aggressive driving style since joining the team. Despite the tension, Perez told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend that his only realistic benchmark is Button, given the car's limitations. "I have no car to fight for victory," Perez said. "And in these circumstances, my only goal is to try to be better than my teammate, who is a world champion, a very capable driver."
He added that overtaking Button on track is a clear sign he is doing his job well, and described the Briton as the reference point for his own performance. Button, meanwhile, has not been shy about voicing his frustration with Perez's approach, especially after their on-track clashes earlier in the season. For more on their rivalry, seePerez and Button Clash as McLaren Teammate Tensions Boil Over in Bahrain.
Looking ahead to 2014
Perez is expected to remain at McLaren for 2014, with his initial contract covering at least two years. The upcoming season will see sweeping technical changes, including the introduction of turbocharged engines and new energy recovery systems. Perez said the new rules will force all drivers to adapt, and sees 2014 as the beginning of a new era for Formula One and for himself at McLaren.
