“Checo” Perez eyes success at home for Mexico’s return to F1

Force India Formula One driver Sergio Perez (L) of Mexico and teammate driver Nico Hulkenberg of Germany poses after they attending a news conference in Mexico City, Mexico

Reuters: Mexico’s F1 driver, Sergio Perez, told media in Mexico City that he is seeking top marks when he participates in the capital’s return to the Formula 1 scene next month, hoping a home side advantage will give him an edge.

Perez posed for photographers alongside German teammate Nico Hulkenberg. Both Force India drivers will continue with the team into 2016 and have their next race in Austin in sights.

But for Perez, Mexico City’s return to the F1 calendar this year for the first time since 1992 has given him real drive to come out on top at home.

“It’s a lot of pressure but it’s very positive pressure that without a doubt is motivating, to live in Austin for a bit, with the support of Mexicans who are there in this race. But I think the grand prize in Mexico does not compare with anything. Undoubtedly the support of the people will be very important and very special and without a doubt it will have a big impact on the result,” he said.

Hulkenberg has penned a two-year extension with Force India despite a rocky season which saw him crash out of the Singapore Grand Prix in September.

The German driver is looking to round out the F1 season on a high.

“Well I think that obviously the season for me since this summer break there has been quite a few hiccups, they’re not the smoothest race weekends but sometimes that’s how it goes in racing. I just keep focus, I keep working, keep working hard, we have four races to go in this season. I want to do as good as I can and be in the points in all four remaining races. That’s the main target, that’s where my focus is and that’s the most important thing for now,” said Hulkenberg.

Following their news conference, the Force India drivers tried their skills on the soccer field against a local side.

The US Grand Prix in Austin is scheduled to take place from the 23rd to 25th of October. The drivers are then expected to return to Mexico City for its return to the F1 calendar for early November.