F1: Pérez criticizes new race format after Melbourne: “Everything very fake”

F1: Pérez criticizes new race format after Melbourne: "Everything very fake"

The list of drivers criticizing the new Formula 1 regulations continues to grow, and Sergio Pérez is the latest name added. The competitor pointed out how the race in Melbourne felt quite ‘fake’.

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The Mexican finished with the debutant Cadillac in only 16th place at the season opener in the Australian GP. However, during the race, he faced a tough battle against Liam Lawson – which even led to comments from the New Zealander saying that his opponent ‘hadn’t gotten over’ being fired from Red Bull.

After the end of the race at Albert Park, Checo went as far as saying he was looking for a “fun race,” but already this week in China, he pointed out how he was unimpressed with the new ‘Mario Kart’ style of Formula 1 races.

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Sergio Perez (MEX) Cadillac Formula 1 Team MAC-26.

“I found it all very fake, to be honest. Yes, [everything] is solved with a button. You overtake and you get overtaken. Mario Kart style,” he said.

Asked if drivers still make a difference in battles with the new cars, Pérez stated that “of course, at the end of the day, the driver can also make a difference. It all comes down to that. It’s still very early for these rules, but it takes time. But what we saw in Melbourne, speaking as a fan, I didn’t like it,” he added.

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