Sergio Perez says he is in the best form of his career as he heads to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix looking to make it back-to-back wins in 2022. Fresh from inking a two-year contract extension with Red Bull, the Mexican took a consummate victory in last month's Monaco Grand Prix, and spoke of his contentment with his current situation at the Milton Keynes outfit. "I was very happy to extend my stay with the team until at least 2024," said Perez. "That tells you the great work we have done together and how happy we are with each other. "Having my future decided allows me to stay focused on the main goal of winning races and world titles. "Today, I think I am in the best moment of my career and driving for a team that always seeks perfection, which is the perfect match for me."
Perez grateful for Red Bull opportunity
Perez's long-term future in F1 had looked in doubt just two years ago, when the then-Racing Point team announced he would be leaving at the end of 2020 in order to accommodate Sebastian Vettel. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Perez continued to put in strong drives, notably taking his maiden F1 victory at the Sakhir Grand Prix. The Mexican was rewarded with a seat at Red Bull for 2021 after the drinks-backed squad elected to replace the underperforming Alex Albon, and spoke of his gratitude at being able to continue his F1 career. "It's amazing how hard work always pays," said Perez. "Two years ago I was without a seat in F1, and today I'm in the best team. "I can only say that I am happy and very grateful for the opportunity. "I am still very excited to think about what we achieved as a team in Monaco, seeing the joy it brought to my family and my country motivates me a lot."
Perez talks up street circuit challenge
Perez notably took his first victory for Red Bull at last year's Azerbaijan Grand Prix, meaning two of his three career Grand Prix wins have come on street circuits. The Mexican also finished on the podium at Baku in 2016 and 2018 in less competitive Force India machinery, and added that he enjoyed the challenge that temporary tracks present. "It was very special winning my first race with the team in Baku last season, it brought me great joy. "I like street circuits because it is where the driver can really make the difference. "Of course it is easier to make a mistake when you're trying to go on the limit, but at the end of the day that is what gives you the tenths you need to be competitive."
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