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Perez sees F1 as 'unfair' but still feels lucky

Sergio Perez says Formula 1 is often very unfair but insists the opportunity to race at the pinnacle of racing far surpasses the disappointing moments.

The Mexican has perhaps reached a turning point in his career as a Grand Prix driver, feeling the moment has come for him to step up to the next level and aim for a seat with a front-running team.

A veteran of 138 career starts in F1, Perez is in his fifth season with Force India, the 28-year-old having matured into one of the sport's most reliable racers.

While he was rumored to have been short-listed by Ferrari in the past, Perez has so far been snubbed by the top teams. He knows however that Formula 1 takes no prisoners, but vows to keep on performing to the best of his abilities in a world he is forever grateful to be a part of.

Baku podium brought back Force India's momentum - Mallya

"Formula 1 is very unfair in that it depends less on the athlete than many other sports," the Force India driver told Spain's Marca.

"It's not like tennis for example, where it's up to you. Even if you're the best driver in the world you will not win if you don't have the best car.

"But I do not feel frustrated because I am aware of how lucky I am and the great opportunity I have, and the great career I have had," he added.

"Although I haven't had a competitive car in my eight years in F1, I still know what I can do. It just depends on the cars I have in the coming years."

Perez podium in Baku went a long way towards boosting the Mexican's spirits after a difficult start to his crucial 2018 campaign.

"Finishing on the podium in Baku felt amazing. After a few tough races we finally got a result we deserved," he said

"It reminded me of 2016, when we had a difficult start to the season and then we had the podium in Monaco.

"We were quick in Baku right from the start and we knew there was the chance to score a great result. I’m so proud of my team and the way we did it."

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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.