Christian Horner Laments ‘Heartbreaking’ Azerbaijan GP as Perez’s Hopes Dashed by Sainz Crash

Devastated Christian Horner believes Sergio Perez had a chance to win the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Christian Horner's opinion on the collision between Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz

Christian Horner asserted that Sergio Perez had the potential to win the F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix if not for the bad luck that befell him.

During the second-to-last lap, Red Bull's Perez and Ferrari's Carlos Sainz were competing for third place when they collided and crashed into the barrier.

Perez expressed his frustration through a profane outburst over team radio.

Earlier, he was held up by Lando Norris, making it difficult for him to close the gap with the race winner, Oscar Piastri.

Red Bull’s dejected team principal Horner shared with Sky Sports regarding Perez: "He was entitled to much better. Carlos moves across the track."

"It's really disheartening. He should have finished in the top three, at the very least."

"It ruined Checo's race, caused significant harm, and lost us crucial points in the constructors' championship."

In Baku, Red Bull relinquished their position at the top of the constructors' championship to McLaren, following Piastri's victory and Norris securing fourth place.

Horner was questioned about whether Perez would have been able to catch up to Piastri before his collision with Sainz.

"It was challenging," he replied. "Regrettably, he fell behind significantly during his out-laps following Alex Albon."

"After that, Lando's actions significantly impacted him, allowing Oscar to gain the advantage on the track."

"If it weren't for that, he would have emerged victorious in the race today."

"It's really devastating for the team to miss out on a podium finish so close to the end of the race."

What made Perez quicker than Verstappen?

Max Verstappen, the F1 titleholder, was limited to a below-average fifth place in Azerbaijan.

Horner clarified the reason behind Perez's superior speed: “He achieved an optimal rhythm and configuration.

"Checo's vehicle performed exceptionally well today. It's possible that we implemented certain adjustments on Max's car that did not yield the desired results."

"We wore out the tires after battling for such an extended time."

“Observe George Russell's performance. He begins at a slower pace, gradually picks up speed, and ends with his tyres in better condition.”

"It is extremely annoying."

Horner commented on McLaren's lead in the constructors' standings, stating, "There are still many races left to go."

“There was an incredible competition at the lead for numerous laps.

"It's disheartening that it had to end this way, especially since it was unnecessary."

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