Sergio Perez has fiercely hit out at Formula 1 journalists, accusing them of pushing an "agenda" that has stoked continuous rumours about his future at Red Bull.
Just a month ago, as speculation about his possible retirement or exit from the team grew, Perez posted a meme from The Wolf of Wall Street on social media featuring Leonardo DiCaprio's character shouting: "I'm not f*cking leaving."
Speaking ahead of his home race in Mexico, Perez addressed the issue directly. "In the end, he didn't say much," Perez remarked. "But last year it was the same."
He expressed frustration over how the constant speculation affects the fans who support him. "I don't think it's fair that they make up these kinds of rumours, because in the end you create uncertainty for the people who make a huge effort to go and support me at the Mexican GP. I just don't think it's fair."
The 34-year-old believes some members of the media are deliberately fueling the rumours. "There are many agendas in F1," he said. "Eventually you understand how journalism works."
Perez explained that while he tries to focus on his job, the constant stream of speculation can become too much. "I always try to stay focused on my job, and the interviews I do are because I have to do them," Perez said. "But when they mess with my people, I said 'I have to do something' and that's what I did – I'm not leaving."
He also made it clear that he has no doubts about his contract with Red Bull. "I have a contract, I know perfectly well what's in it and there's no doubt that I'll be here next year."
Amid these rumours, Perez's father, Antonio Perez Garibay, also spoke out to show his support. "The best of Checo Perez is yet to come," he told Record, a Mexican sports newspaper. "I am sure that in due time, Checo will have the weapons and tools to fight for the world championship. I am very excited and I can say that Checo will be world champion."
Perez Garibay, a well-known political figure in Mexico, acknowledged that driving for Red Bull naturally leads to more scrutiny and speculation. "It's the most sought-after seat in the world," he said. "Today, whatever the team is like, Red Bull is the best team in the world. If Checo had still been at a team like Sauber or Force India, you'd hardly hear anything about him."
He reiterated his belief that his son's best days in Formula 1 are still ahead. "These four years have put him on the map, but the best of Checo is yet to come. In life, winning is not easy – you have to fight. The only thing that comes to you for free in life is the rain."
