Perez: Drivers in new teams at a 'disadvantage' at the outset

Sergio Perez believes drivers such as himself who have switched teams this season will be at a "disadvantage" in the early races of 2021.

With the exception of Mercedes, Alfa Romeo and Williams which have retained their 2020 line-ups, all F1 teams are fielding new pairings this season.

Perez is among those who are starting afresh in a new environment, having moved from Racing Point to Red Bull Racing.

Perez said last weekend that it would likely take him the better of five races to get comfortable with his new car given the limited amount of pre-season testing this year.

And the Mexican ventured to guess that a period of adjustment would be necessary for all those like him who have switched teams.

©RedBull

"Ideally I would like more running," he said last Sunday in Bahrain. "I mean, it’s crazy when I finished to think that that was it, that I have to jump into the race when we are back.

"It’s crazy to think that. But it’s how it is, you know. Changing teams is not ideal.

"So I think in that regard, the people that are changing teams are going to be in a disadvantage compared to the people that are carrying on or have experience with their teams.

"But it’s part of the game, and we just have to make the most out of it. Certainly, it’s very little time."

• Read also: Perez needs 'five proper races' to get on top of RB16B

Perez clocked in fastest in last Sunday's morning session at Sakhir, and the Mexican's overall performance and consistency was where Red Bull expected it to be.

However, team boss Christian Horner is very much counting on the team's new recruit to deliver big points on a regular basis this year while racing on the same level as teammate Max Verstappen.

"They get the same car and the same opportunities," Horner told Dutch media Ziggo Sport.

"Checo's signing is nice as he's experienced and a great guy. The two drivers get along well and I think he adds something to the team, which is a positive.

"He and Max work well together, they make a good combination."

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