Sergio Perez rates F1 return after initial 'doubts'

Sergio Perez has given his return to the F1 grid a rating of “close to 10” after being left satisfied with his performances.

Perez departed the field at the end of the 2024 campaign following a disappointing season with Red Bull.

However, the Mexican's veteran status as an F1 driver was deemed a vital attribute for newcomer Cadillac, who signed Perez alongside Valtteri Bottas.

Cadillac has endured struggles during the first half of the year, but Perez has come closest to scoring the team's first point before being denied by a grid penalty at the Monaco Grand Prix.

When asked by media including RacingNews365 to rate his campaign so far, Perez replied: “It's hard to put a number. 

“Obviously, there are things that I could have done better. So I definitely wouldn't put a 10, but I think close to it. 

“I've been very happy with my performances since I came back. I had some doubts on coming back to the sport.”

Having suffered greatly during his final season at Red Bull, Perez highlighted his joy in showcasing that it was an exceptional circumstance.

“I came back and I'm really happy because I managed to prove to myself that I'm still one of the best out there,” he added.

“With the right environment, I can perform at a very high level, and I think I've proved that to myself. 

“My race pace has been really strong and my quali pace, so I've been getting better and better. I'm very happy.”