F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Sergio Perez heads to 'the highlight' of his season

Sergio Perez heads back home this week, but his trip to Mexico City will be anything but a leisurely stay as the Force India driver undertakes the busiest race weekend of his season.

For any driver, a home race entails a lot of exposure but also many duties as the local solicitations pour in.

Still, racing at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will always remain a high point in Perez's campaign, and an opportunity to get an extra boost of motivation.

“Racing in Mexico is the highlight of the season for me," he says.

"The excitement each time we go back there is the same. When I see the busy grandstands, I feel very proud and the support from the people is fantastic.

"The energy of the crowd really motivates me and the drivers’ parade is always a very emotional moment."

It's doubtful he'll get the chance to savour his mother's home cooking given his various commitments, but there will still be many familiar faces in his entourage all weekend.

"It’s an extremely busy weekend for everybody: me, my team, the sponsors, but it’s still the best week of the entire season," he adds.

"To have my family and friends around me helps make this race even more special. I really want to give everybody a strong result to celebrate on Sunday."

Indeed, beyond the frenzy and atmosphere, there will be a race to compete in on Sunday, and a few good challenges to tackle around Mexico City's 4.3 km track.

"The circuit is a big challenge. Because of the altitude, the track is slippery with low grip levels and it’s very easy to make a mistake or lose time," he warns.

"The long straight is usually your best chance for overtaking, but with these cars it’s never easy to pass."

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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.

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