F1 News
If ill Perez has to miss Austria GP, this looks to be his replacement
- GPblog.com
Sergio Perez was the major absentee during F1 drivers' media commitments on Thursday. The Mexican had stayed behind in his hotel as he was not feeling well. Should Perez not be able to race, his replacement seems to be already fixed.
Before the drivers would exchange views with the media, Red Bull Racing made an announcement: "Checo won’t be at the circuit today. He became unwell last night and is taking the day to rest to ensure he’s in the best possible health for this weekend’s race."
Perez has less time for recovery
Perez missed the track walk and consultations with his engineers due to his illness. Max Verstappen's teammate is expected to be in action on Friday. Then the first and only free practice of the weekend is scheduled, followed by qualifying for Sunday's Grand Prix. Perez needs to compete in that qualifying session if he is to be in action on Sunday as well. On a weekend where no Sprint is run, Perez could still be out on Friday. The Red Bull Ring does have a Sprint and Sprint Shootout scheduled.
Naturally, there is fierce speculation as to who Perez's possible replacement will be. Daniel Ricciardo, the Austrian team's third driver, would not be. The Australian is not present at the Red Bull Ring. Liam Lawson is the Austrian team's designated reserve driver this weekend. The New Zealander has never driven a Grand Prix before. He currently competes in Japanese Super Formula. This class will not be in action this weekend.