Sergio Perez has admitted he has been forced to raise his game following the arrival of Esteban Ocon to the Sahara Force India F1 Team, and it has led to four consecutive two-car points finishes for the Silverstone-based outfit.
The Mexican has been impressed by the speed and consistency of Ocon since he arrived to replace Renault-bound Nico Hulkenberg during the off-season, and he also feels the feedback the Frenchman gives is always good, and as a result he has found the need to push himself harder in order to stay in front of his team-mate.
Force India enjoyed their best result of the season last time out at the Sochi Autodrom, with Perez finishing sixth just ahead of Ocon, and the Mexican feels positive that they continue to push each other to even better results this season.
“It’s obviously good to have somebody different, different way of working, different way of driving,” said Perez on f1i.com. “I look at Esteban and see a lot of potential in him. He’s doing a good job so far. Always he gives good feedback.
“He definitely knows what’s going on and understands a lot of the sport. He’s pushing me, so that’s important to have that in a team-mate who is able to push you for the good of the team. I think he’s on a good level already.”
