Disappointed Perez in France: 'It is what it is'.

Sergio Perez had a tiring first day in France. The Mexican was unable to finish in the top five on the scorching hot Friday. Where he was sixth in the first free practice session, he finished tenth a few hours later. Nevertheless, he remains confident for the rest of the weekend.

After an excellent period, he has been struggling a little in recent weeks. In Canada and Austria he was forced to retire, while in Britain he finished second. Perez hopes to return to the podium in France, but it will not be easy.

Perez's best time was more than a second off in both practice sessions, so Red Bull Racing has a lot of work to do to get him to a good qualifying session. Speaking to Sky Sports, Perez was realistic, but at the same time continued to exude confidence.

"I'm not very comfortable at the moment with the car," he admitted honestly. "Some work and understanding to be done overnight. We will try to pick up the best pieces for tomorrow qualifying and race. It's been a short stint on the soft tyre, but it is what it is. Hopefully tomorrow we can pull it all together in the fight."