25th Oct 2012 | Formula 1
Indian Grand Prix Tips: Sergio Perez
His two podium finishes have come in races where the hard tyre compound was in play.
One of the biggest challenges teams have faced this season is managing tyre degradation. It has improved the spectacle by adding an element of unpredictability and as punters, we can benefit.
The soft and hard tyre compounds must be used at the Indian Grand Prix this weekend, an unusual set-up, as the difference in performance is large. Pirelli have brought the hard tyre to six grand prix this season, three times in conjunction with the soft tyre: Spain, Great Britain and Japan.
The main beneficiary of this tactic has been Sergio Perez. The Mexican is kind on his tyres, which allows him to go longer in each stint, giving his team a strategical edge. It is no coincidence that his best results have come when the hard compound was available. His two second places came in Malaysia and Italy, races where the hard/medium compounds were used.
Unfortunately, he’s not made it to the chequered flag in the three hard/soft races. In Spain and Japan he qualified 5th and 6th but crashed out during the race. Silverstone was a wash-out; scuppered by the rain in qualifying he then suffered a puncture during the race.
With a bit better luck, he would have substantially improved his points tally. With the hard tyre compound back in play this weekend, Sergio Perez looks excellent each-way value at 66/1 (Paddy Power), with ¼ odds for a top-3 finish.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 10:54 25th Oct, 2012 but subject to change
