Perez: 'Physical point of new cars exaggerated'!

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Contrary to the opinion expressed by most of his colleagues, Force India's Sergio Perez doesn't believe his 2017 car is any harder to drive than the previous one.

Increased downforce and mechanical grip produced by F1's new regulations have cars rushing much faster through turns and corners this year, imposing bigger physical demands on drivers.

But Perez did not feel much of a difference during pre-season testing in Barcelona recently.

"I noticed almost no difference in physical effort between the 2016 and 2017 cars," Perez told Spanish daily Marca.

"I think this point has been somewhat exaggerated."

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Regardless, drivers slaved in the gym over the winter, trying to build muscle and mass to cope with the extra demands and G-forces.

But with Force India's VJM10 reportedly overweight by 10kg, the team now wants its drivers to lose a few pounds before they get to the grid in Melbourne next week.

"Checo is one of the best physically prepared drivers on the grid and will have no problem with his neck even if he has to lose weight," said Perez's personal trainer, Xavi Martos.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.