Sergio Perez has pointed to Fernando Alonso as the main example of how today’s Formula 1 structure is holding back fast drivers.
Next weekend marks the final race of the Spaniard’s career before he heads off to new challenges including another bid at the Indianapolis 500.
In doing so, it will bring to an end four years with McLaren that has seen him floundering in the midfield if not worse and unable to compete where he should, at the front with the very best.
“It shows how bad F1 is, you have one of the best drivers in the world fighting in the midfield, trying to get some points every weekend,” Perez bemoaned.
“You put him in another car and he wins the championship. That’s just where F1 is at the moment. We are all in that boat.”
The Mexican admits it hasn’t always been the case for the double world champion, however.
“He has also been very lucky in his career that he had some very competitive cars and was able to win some titles,” he continued.
“He has massive talent and he deserves the success he has had in his career and I wish him all the best. Maybe he will come back? Who knows.”
Many believe F1 will be worse off without Alonso on the grid next season, Perez included, and the Force India driver thinks his appeal extends beyond just his driving skill.
“He’s a great driver. Fantastic personality as well. A great character,” he said. “He loves racing. I have a lot of respect for him for what he has achieved in the sport but also for what he is trying to do out of the sport, with all the other titles that he is chasing.
“I think he’s definitely a great character for the sport and it’s a shame we lose him.”
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Even those who haven’t seen eye-to-eye with the 37-year-old this season agree, with Kevin Magnussen looking beyond the numerous on track battles he has had with Alonso
“My respect for Fernando as a driver is very big,” the Dane stated. “There’s no doubt he’s definitely one of the best drivers on the grid.
“Even though we’ve had some tough fights and a few arguments, there’s no damage to my respect for him as a driver.”