'Wrong place' Perez laments title loss in Qatar Sprint

Sergio Perez felt he was in the "wrong place" after getting caught up in the title-deciding incident during the Qatar Grand Prix Sprint.

The Red Bull driver was battling with Esteban Ocon and Nico Hulkenberg, when the Alpine driver cut across at Turn 3 and collided with the Haas.

This sent Ocon into a spin and he collided with the side of Perez, causing massive damage to both cars and ending their races, and handing Max Verstappen the title.

"What a shame. I was just in the wrong place with these two guys and ended up taking a lot of damage on my car," Perez told media, including RacingNews365.

"It was very low grip to start the race and we were making good progress.

"Unfortunately as I was making progress, they had this contact and I paid the price and I have massive damage also on my car."

Perez: Verstappen has done a tremendous championship

The collision enabled Verstappen to seal his third F1 World Championship, after a dominant display all season for the Dutchman.

Perez is on course to finish second in the Drivers' Championship, but acknowledged his teammates achievement.

"He has done on a tremendous championship," said Perez.

"Definitely the way he has delivered this season, he deserves all the success he's had. I'm very happy for him and for the team."