Perez happy with performance despite missing out on points finish

Sergio Perez insists that he is pleased with his showing in the Australian Grand Prix, even though he finished in 11th place, therefore losing out on scoring any points in the season opener.

Force India seem to have dropped back after two impressive seasons with consecutive fourth place finishes in the Constructors’ Championship.

However, they seem to be off the pace of McLaren, Renault and Haas so far this season.

Perez said after the race: “It was quite an unlucky weekend for us, but there are still positives to take from this race.

“We came close to bringing home a point although it was just out of reach. I was pushing throughout the whole race and especially chasing Sainz in the final laps.

“I got really close to him, but it wasn’t enough. Overtaking in Melbourne is very difficult – you could see the same with Bottas who couldn’t pass me during the first stint.

“The Virtual Safety Car didn’t help us at all, but that’s just how things go sometimes.

“I am still happy with my performance and the job we did as a team.”

Perez is now expecting upgrades and better racing in Bahrain, saying: “Hopefully our improvements will come as early as Bahrain.

“It’s a race where you can overtake and strategy plays a bigger part compared to Melbourne.”