Perez confident for race: 'It was good work from Max'

Sergio Perez left qualifying in Abu Dhabi feeling good. The Mexican took second place, keeping him ahead of Charles Leclerc on the grid, whose car is one place behind his rival. However, Perez is not thinking the job is done just yet, he stressed in conversation with Viaplay.

The Red Bull Racing driver knows he has a clear lead over Leclerc, but that keeping the Monegasque behind him will not be easy. "Tomorrow is a very long race ahead," he stressed to the medium.

According to Perez, his second time in qualifying is partly due to Max Verstappen. Whereas he was furious with his teammate last weekend when he wouldn't let him drive past him in Brazil, Verstappen was helpful in Abu Dhabi. "It was good work from Max and from the team," he said.

Verstappen revealed to the same medium that he is willing to help his teammate in the race, should the need arise. Perez will be content to finish one place ahead of Leclerc during the race. The Dutchman has been certain of the world title since the Japan GP.