Sergio Perez just can't get enough of Monaco, and the main reason for his insatiability is the venue's extraordinary level of difficulty, a source of huge satisfaction when well mastered says the Force India driver.
Aside from a podium finish achieved in the Principality in 2016, the Mexican driver hasn't often been rewarded for his infatuation and efforts on F1's most demanding street circuit.
The lack of results hasn't the least bit eroded Perez's enthusiasm however.
"I love everything about Monaco. It’s my favourite track and it’s one of the biggest races of the year," he says.
"I always try to enjoy the week as much as possible. I try to soak up the special atmosphere and make the most of the opportunity to drive on this amazing circuit.
"I always feel very lucky to be driving in Monaco.
"The reason I like Monaco so much is because it’s not easy. It’s a massive challenge and it’s always a tough race.
Every lap you are under pressure. There is no chance to relax. You need to build up your speed, build your confidence and be careful not to overstep the limit.
"When the car is working well and you have confidence, it’s the best feeling in the world."
Rare are those in the event's history who have succeeded in winning from a low start, unless they owed their win to particular circumstances such as Ligier's Olivier Panis in 1996.
Perez therefore underlines the importance of qualifying in order to reduce to a minimum the task near impossible task of overtaking come Sunday.
"Qualifying in Monaco is the most important session of the year. I usually say that qualifying is 99% of the weekend because overtaking on Sunday is very difficult – unless it rains," he confirms.
"So there is big pressure on the Saturday and it’s not easy to find space in Q1 when all the cars are on track. It can become a lottery. You rely on your team to help you find some space.
"I’ve had some good results in Monaco, especially the podium two years ago. I always enjoy street circuits and I think it’s another good opportunity for us to score points."
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