Perez "proud" to finish just behind top six drivers

Sergio Perez admits that he is proud to finish the 2017 season just behind the top six drivers in the world championship standings. The Mexican currently lies in seventh and will secure that place if he isn't out-scored by 11 points in Abu Dhabi by teammate Esteban Ocon.

"As a team we can be satisfied with our season," Perez said. "Finishing fourth is the best we could achieve and, on a personal level, finishing just behind the top six drivers makes me feel proud. We just need to make sure we deliver this weekend and end the season well."

Abu Dhabi will host the final round of the 2017 season this weekend, and Perez is hoping to end his successful season on a high. Despite claiming no podiums, he has managed to finish inside the points on all but three occasions.

Previewing the weekend in Abu Dhabi, the 27-year-old says he enjoys the Yas Marina Circuit but acknowledges that it will be strange driving the VJM10 for the final time, not knowing what next year's package will bring. 

"I enjoy driving at Yas Marina. It’s a track where we’ve been strong for the last few years and I would love to end the year on a high with a strong result. The final race is always a strange feeling because it’s your last opportunity to drive the VJM10 and you don’t know what next year will bring. We don’t have any pressure because fourth place in the championship is confirmed so I can focus on simply enjoying the experience and getting the best result possible."

Fergal Walsh