Force India’s Sergio Perez says he has never disobeyed a team order in the wake of criticism following the Canadian Grand Prix.
Perez refused to let team-mate Esteban Ocon through despite the Frenchman having much fresher tyres and a better shot at taking the final podium spot from Ricciardo.
Media and fans alike slammed Perez for not letting Ocon past, but he believes he was never given a definite order to do so.
“The problem is that the press has created these stories – because I’ve never disobeyed an order,” Perez told Autosport.
“All we had was a discussion about whether to let Ocon pass me.
“But I increased my speed and approached Ricciardo, and that was it. At no time did I ignore my team.
“I am here to give the best results to Force India and if I get an order, I will follow it. But here, there was no order.”
Despite Ocon proclaiming his disappointment at Perez’s choice, Perez insisted there is no friction in the team.
“Yes, all is well between Ocon and me,” added Perez.
“Everyone on the team feels there is a good atmosphere, especially after an excellent result and on a weekend where we were as competitive as we were.
“We should be happy because we added 18 points – the same amount as Ferrari did today.
“Our rivals did not add much, so we should be happy and not focus on stories that I didn’t respect team orders – because there were none.
“It’s good that Esteban is at that pace. It’s important for the team that Esteban keeps doing a good job. I’ll keep doing my thing.”
