Sergio Perez Calls Monaco Win 'Writing Your Name Into History'

Sergio Perez has revisited his "very special" 2022 Monaco Grand Prix victory, a win he achieved by capitalizing on a strategic gamble in wet conditions. The Mexican driver, who switched to intermediate tires ahead of his rivals, described the triumph as fulfilling a lifelong dream and "writing your name into the history of motorsport."

Why it matters:

The Monaco Grand Prix is arguably the most prestigious race on the F1 calendar, and a victory there cements a driver's legacy. For Perez, this win stands as a defining moment in his career, showcasing his strategic acumen and ability to perform under immense pressure on a track where overtaking is nearly impossible.

The details:

• Strategic Masterclass: In tricky wet conditions, Perez was among the first to pit for intermediate tires. This bold move allowed him to seize the lead as Ferrari's strategy for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz faltered.
• A Lifelong Dream: Perez recounted a childhood memory of attending the race with his father and sneaking into the paddock, calling the event one he "always dreamed of competing in."
• Historic Significance: He emphasized the unique weight of the victory, stating, "winning Monaco means writing your name into the history of motorsport," elevating it above his other achievements, including a podium with Force India.

Between the lines:

The reflection comes shortly after his departure from Red Bull, where he faced a significant performance gap to teammate Max Verstappen. His mention of spending an entire week in the simulator during a 2023 slump to "give everything" to the team underscores his dedication, even during a challenging period, adding a layer of context to his legacy with the team.