Sergio “Checo” Perez made a strong start to the 2012 Formula One season, coming from last place to finish eighth in the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday.
Having started 22nd on the grid, Perez made up 14 places to claim four championship points.
It could have been even better for the Guadalajara-born driver, who went into the last lap in sixth position. This would have been his best finish in F1 to date, but Perez lost two places at the last minute due to overly worn tires.
Despite the disappointment, this was still Perez’ second best ever finish and it was particularly impressive considering his lowly starting position.
Although he set the 17th quickest time prior to the race, Perez was issued a five-place penalty for changing his gearbox after it suffered a failure in qualifying. This meant he had to start from the back of the grid.
“It was a tough race for me. After starting from the last place on the grid, due to the change of the gearbox, I knew I had to try everything to gain positions after the start,” said Perez. “Of course I’m not happy I lost my position on the last lap, but I’m very happy for the team for finishing sixth and eighth. It is a great start to the season.”
Jenson Button won the race ahead of world champion Sebastian Vettel in second and Lewis Hamilton in third. Perez’ Sauber teammate Kamui Kobayashi finished sixth.