Sergio Perez, the Mexican driver for Red Bull Racing, has voiced his concerns regarding the growing number of races in Formula 1. He believes that the planned 24 rounds for this year are “excessive.” With the addition of the Chinese Grand Prix and the Emilia Romagna GP in Imola, the calendar has reached a record-breaking 22 races in 2023. This expansion is driven by the series’ financial and commercial growth, as various regions seek to capitalize on it. However, Perez is worried about the impact on the well-being of drivers, engineers, and everyone involved in the F1 paddock. During the launch of the Red Bull RB20 in Milton Keynes, he emphasized the importance of managing energy levels and maintaining peak physical condition throughout the year. Perez advocates for a more focused approach, prioritizing quality over quantity, with 20 races being the ideal number. This viewpoint was previously expressed by Perez before the season finale in Abu Dhabi last year, where fatigue among paddock members was a prominent topic of discussion. Having experienced the intensity and toll of a 22-race season, Perez recognizes the need for a more efficient schedule that prioritizes the welfare of all individuals involved in the sport. He believes that maintaining a high level of quality is crucial for the growth and success of Formula 1. Perez’s observations of exhaustion among paddock members highlight the seriousness of this issue.
