After helping Force India to their strongest points haul ever, Sergio Perez is hoping to close out the 2016 season with a good result in Abu Dhabi.
The Mexican currently lies seventh in the drivers’ standings and is statistically his best season today achieving two podiums and only finishing outside of the points on five occasions after the 20 races so far this year.
“It’s the final race of the year and you really want to close the season with a good result,” Perez said.
“It’s an exciting time and you need to keep focused on the job even though everyone is already talking about the following season.
“You want to finish the year well to go on holiday with a sweet taste in your mouth, especially this year when there is so much at stake. Nobody wants to have a bad final race; it’s a pretty nasty feeling!”
After nearly making the podium once again at last season’s race at the Yas Marina circuit, battling both Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen in the process. Despite missing out on the rostrum, Perez wants to try and stand up there for a third time this year.
“Last year’s race was pretty exciting – fighting for the podium against the Ferraris. Even though we fell short, it was a very good race and hopefully we can have another strong weekend after Brazil.
“You always get a bit nostalgic at the end of the season. You know it’s the last time you’re going to drive your VJM09 and you don’t know what the next season will bring. I want to go into the winter with special memories from the final race.”
