Sergio Perez admitted the experience of standing on the Sochi podium two weeks ago would stay with him after securing only the third podium finish in the history of the Sahara Force India team.
The Mexican was able to capitalise on a last lap collision between Valtteri Bottas and Kimi Raikkonen to take back over third place, having lost two positions on the previous lap to the two Finn’s as his Pirelli tyres ran out of grip following a very early pit stop.
“Getting back on the podium in Sochi was an amazing feeling and seeing my crew below the podium is an image that will stay with me forever,” said Perez.
“They work so hard every day to give me a competitive car and I am really enjoying my time with the team.”
Perez now turns his focus to the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, which has been more like a home race in the past three years before the reintroduction of the Mexican Grand Prix this season. He is looking forward to getting back out on track to try and keep the momentum Force India have had in recent races.
“Austin is a great place to race,” said Perez. “It has been my home race for several years, before the return of the Mexican Grand Prix, and the circuit is great fun for both fans and drivers.
“The city is very cool and there is so much happening during Grand Prix week. When I step into the cockpit and see all the Mexican flags and the fans in the stands it’s an incredible boost for me.
“The track has some special parts, especially the first sector and the uphill turn one. You can take a few different lines through the corner and you can brake really late for it, which makes it a good place to overtake. The whole of the first sector is very fun to drive with a lot of quick corners.
“It’s been an interesting season so far and we are doing a great job, so our focus needs to be on keeping it up for the rest of the season.”
