© Getty ImagesCheco On His Season So FarFive races down, 18 to go, Sergio reviews the early part of his season.
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Having been in the sport for 10 seasons, it was all change for Checo at the beginning of the year when he joined the Team and after five thrilling rounds, we sat down with the Mexican driver to chat about how he’s settling in and what we can expect in the upcoming races.
Checo is currently P5 in the championship and has finished in the top five of every race except one, Imola, and that’s the one that annoys him. “There have been ups and downs,” he said. “The mistake in Imola and missing out on those points was annoying. Without that mistake, I could be third in the championship now. It would certainly look different.”
What A Debut Race For Checo© Vladimir Rys
Checo proved his worth to the Team at the season opener, to come from pit lane to P5 in Bahrain showed that he was willing to fight for the Team and not give up until he’d passed the chequered flag. He has received praise from Christian for his efforts, and that’s boosted the Mexican driver. “It’s very important as a driver to know that you’re appreciated by your Team and that your feedback and presence is valued. I hope we can continue to grow together as a whole group,” explained Checo.
The season is still young and Checo knows there’s still more to come from him, he just needs to unlock the car's full potential, but it’s close. “There are a lot of aspects that are promising; the race pace is right up there and we’ve proved we can do it in qualifying,” said Checo, who went on to explain where further improvements can come from.
I’m still learning how the Team operates, but our understanding is growing.
“I’m still learning how the Team operates, but our understanding is growing. The Team works very differently compared to what I have been used to, it’s taken some time, as has learning the car. It has to be right for us to be up there on Sunday – when it matters most – and it can only get better the more I drive the car.”
Checo Trackside In Baku© Getty Images
With Baku coming up this weekend, it’s definitely one of Checo’s favourite circuits, he’s finished on the podium here twice and is confident looking ahead to Azerbaijan and the rest of the season.
We’re taking steps in the right direction and every race I’m feeling more comfortable. Things will get better! “It’s only race six, but once we go into Abu Dhabi, the final race of the year, the numbers will look very different. I’m not concerned, we’re taking steps in the right direction and every race I’m feeling more comfortable. Things will get better!” Checo concluded.
