(Motorsport-Total.com) – Sergio Perez had disappeared from the premier class for a year, now he is back: The 36-year-old Mexican is starting this season alongside Valtteri Bottas at Cadillac. Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard sees a clear favorite in the internal team duel between the two experienced drivers.
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“I think Bottas is better prepared because he comes with this Mercedes knowledge,” the Scot recalls the Finn’s past in the podcast Up To Speed. “He worked at Mercedes all last year, simulator training and the like.”
“I’m a bit worried about Perez, who really enjoyed the year off,” Coulthard says even more clearly afterwards. “I don’t doubt his commitment, but can you turn it back on after you’ve turned it off?”
Bottas has “better chances” in the duel against Perez
The duel between the two Cadillac drivers could be exciting this season, as both have the chance to establish themselves as number one in the team. “They are old enough to be professional outside the car as well,” says the Scot. “They know they have to work for the greater good of the team.”
“But let’s not kid ourselves: Their individual teams, managers, physios and everyone working around them … Your teammate’s success is your failure,” emphasizes the former Formula 1 driver, who knows from his own experience: “You have to beat your teammate.”
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And in this year’s duel between the Cadillac teammates, Coulthard is certain: “If we were to set it up now, I think Bottas has a better chance of beating Perez, simply due to the fact that he is closer to the present.”
Cadillac has “made a wise decision”
Overall, he is convinced that Cadillac has made a solid choice with Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. “They may not be the fastest driver duo in Formula 1 when you look at their careers so far, but they are a safe bet.”
Cadillac doesn’t have to “wreck cars with rookies,” Coulthard adds with a smile. “They first have to familiarize themselves with the team’s processes and the new rules. That’s why I think they’ve made a wise decision.”
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