Sergio Perez says he expects Racing Point to rebound from a lacklustre pair of displays when Formula1 returns to action at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.
Racing Point introduced a substantial upgrade package at the Spanish Grand Prix last month but struggled for performance, with Perez slumping to an uncompetitive 15th place.
Perez conceded after the event that its display was worrying and the RP19 was again off-the-pace in Monaco, with the Mexican and team-mate Lance Stroll eliminated in Q1.
Perez commented after the race that it was “amazing” that Racing Point had retained fifth spot in the Constructors’ Championship amid its setbacks, and expects a revitalised showing in Canada.
“We’ve had a tough couple of races in Spain and Monaco, but I feel more positive about our chances in Canada,” said Perez.
“I can see how much effort is going on behind the scenes to bring performance to the car and I believe we are moving in a good direction.
“Montreal is a very unique track all about straights and high-speed chicanes, which I think will suit our car.”
For Stroll this weekend marks the third time he will compete on home soil in Formula 1.
Stroll claimed ninth for Williams in 2017 but last year was eliminated after clashing with Brendon Hartley on the opening lap.
“I was born in Montreal and grew up there so it’s always a really special week,” he said.
“When I was a kid, the Canadian Grand Prix was always the race I went to with my Dad. I can remember being five or six years old and being there when Michael [Schumacher] was winning. He was a real hero of mine.
“The F1 race is a big deal for Montreal. You can feel the excitement and buzz in the city all week, and I really enjoy and feed off that atmosphere.
“Canadians love F1 and the race has become a tradition for the city.
“The whole weekend feels like a festival and I get huge support from the fans. Seeing the Canadian flags in the grandstands and knowing that the crowd is behind you feels very special.”
