Force India's Fernley hails 'amazing and tenacious' Perez

©ForceIndia

Force India team boss Bob Fernley believes Sergio Perez is considerably under-valued as a driver, lauding the Mexican's consistency and determination.

The Mexican has been on a roll since last summer, scoring points in 13 successive races and demonstrating his qualities not only as a racer, but first and foremost as a finisher.

Perez delivered another scintillating performance last Sunday in Bahrain, racing from 18th on the grid to seventh at the checkered flag, much to the satisfaction of Bob Fernley and the entire force India team.

"We keep saying that Checo is so undervalued I think in terms of public opinion or whatever," Fernley told Racer.

"He’s an amazing driver – you just give him the slightest sniff of an overtake or a points position and he is there every time."

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Fernley has been so impressed by Perez's track record and ability to deliver that he's likened him to Fernando Alonso.

"He’s got amazing tenacity, which is what Fernando also has, but he has that calmness and that smoothness that allows him to deliver the tyre results and everything that we need as well.

"He’s an exceptionally good driver and we’re obviously very proud to have him with us."

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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.