Clear message from Perez: 'Rivalry should be limited to the track'

There is a lot going on around Max Verstappen's reception by Mexican Formula 1 fans. The Dutchman has bodyguards with him and Sergio Perez has called for respect on several occasions. He will do so again on Thursday in Mexico City.

Perez on rivalry with Verstappen

Perez stresses that while there may be rivalries between them, they are limited to the track and should stay there. "I think it's important that we give this message because I think the media likes to create this sort of rivalry outside the track," the Red Bull Racing driver began.

"I think we have a great sport. We are a great example for a lot of younger generations and we should just be focused on the sport side. Whatever happens on track should always stay there and that's the best message we as a country want to give to the rest of the world. There is nothing else going on. The most important thing is that everything stays on track," he added.

Asked further about his rivalry with teammate Verstappen, Perez replied, "We are all rivals, but at the same time we are all athletes. We all want the best for ourselves. Max and I are in the same team, we both want to win and we all put our best foot forward."

Perez: 'Rivalry should be limited to the track'

"We are all rivals, but at the same time we are all sports athletes. We all want to do the best for ourselves. Max and myself are in the same team, so we both want to win and we are all giving our best. I don't think there should be any rivalry. For example, if I'm fighting in the race with Fernando, he's not my rival outside of the track. We are just fighting on the track. But like I say, the media likes to create this rivalry off the track which I don't think is right. It's important for the fans to understand that," Perez's sent a clear message.