At the 2024 US GP, Max Verstappen and Red Bull bounced back from the challenges he faced in Singapore. The Dutchman enjoyed a fantastic weekend, topping Friday’s practice session and winning the sprint race. However, his teammate Sergio Perez had a different experience in the other RB20.

While Verstappen showcased his speed and skill, Perez struggled with car setup and performance throughout the weekend. Sergio Perez finished 40 seconds behind Verstappen at the US Grand Prix, highlighting a significant performance gap. He revealed that Red Bull discovered a more substantial difference between its old and new floors than expected.

Additionally, he noted that his RB20 did not have the upgraded floor used exclusively by Max Verstappen at COTA. Although the Mexican mentioned some improvements to the car, he acknowledged that there are still many areas that require further development and understanding. The car was coming to us a little over the weekend in the US, but there’s still a lot we need to understand.

Sergio Perez statedPerez also faced problems related to the balance of his car. He experienced issues with handling, which made it difficult to achieve the right setup. This struggle impacted his confidence and performance on the track.

Without the upgraded floor that Verstappen had, he experienced a larger performance gap, resulting in a frustrating finish behind his teammate. The Mexican emphasized the need to fix these issues before the Mexican GP. The Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit features a high-altitude layout, resulting in reduced downforce and changes in tire behavior.

I was struggling a little with balance and we need to iron out those issues to be competitive on a very different track in Mexico City. Sergio Perez explainedSergio Perez: “The car was coming to us a little over the weekend in the US, but there’s still a lot we need to understand. “1/2 pic.

twitter. com/eFlNh0eszu— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) October 23, 2024RELATEDMax Verstappen excited for ‘incredible atmosphere’ at Sergio Perez’s home raceSergio Perez determined to do ‘everything he can’ to excel at Mexican GPSergio Perez has had a notable career at the Mexican Grand Prix, participating multiple times since its return in 2015. His best finish is third place, achieved in 2021 while driving for Red Bull in Mexico.

He has consistently scored points in the event, contributing significantly to his team’s overall championship standings in F1. Sergio Perez (via IMAGO)For 2024, his aim remains the same, as he desires to make the Austrian team competitive. The 34-year-old hopes to secure a podium finish, as it has been a long time since he last stood on one.

I will do everything I can to make my country smile come Sunday evening. Sergio Perez statedPerez: “I was struggling a little with balance and we need to iron out those issues to be competitive on a very different track in Mexico City. I will do everything I can to make my country smile come Sunday evening.

“2/2— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) October 23, 2024RELATEDMercedes eyeing to ‘immediately bounce back’ at Mexican GP after HORRENDOUS Austin weekendRed Bull sits 40 points behind McLaren who snatched their constructors’ lead and now they’re in the pursuit to reclaim it. With five races and two sprints left in the season, there are plenty of points available for the energy drink brand. Verstappen’s COTA performance demonstrated that the upgrades brought to their car were effective and beneficial.

He is prepared to defend his lead in the drivers’ standings for the remainder of the season.