Sergio Perez’s Father Hospitalized After F1 Azerbaijan Crash: Family Shares Shocking Health Update

MONTE-CARLO, MONACO - MAY 28: Antonio Perez Garibay father of Sergio Perez of Mexico and Red Bull Racing, looks on prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 28, 2023 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Antonio Perez Garibay, the father of celebrated Mexican politician Sergio Perez, recently experienced a medical emergency that led to his hospitalization. The incident occurred shortly after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Sergio Perez was involved in a dramatic collision with fellow driver Carlos Sainz. Perez Garibay was discovered unconscious in his bathroom, having suffered a pre-infarction condition, commonly understood as a pre-heart attack. This alarming episode has cast a shadow over the racing event’s proceedings, bringing the focus from the racetrack to personal health concerns within the Perez family.

After spending several days under medical care, Antonio Perez Garibay has been discharged from the hospital and is now recuperating at home. In a statement released by his family, they conveyed his current health status and extended their gratitude to everyone who supported them during this challenging time. “After spending several days in hospital, Mr. Antonio Perez Garibay has been discharged and is now at home, where he will continue his recovery process in the company of his loved ones. Through this statement, Mr. Perez Garibay and Scuderia Perez would like to express their most sincere gratitude to friends, family, and the media for the countless displays of affection, support, and solidarity during this time. Don Antonio will continue his recovery under medical instructions. We thank you again for your understanding and support, and we will be attentive to any relevant updates regarding his health status,” the family shared.

The medical scare appears to have been a result of the emotional stress stemming from Sergio Perez’s crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Antonio Perez Garibay himself mentioned the possible link between the race incident and his health episode. “Everything happened after the accident. The shock of the accident may have caused it. They are already checking my heart to see why I fainted,” he stated, indicating the profound impact the event had on him.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix was a significant race not just for the Perez family but also for the broader Formula 1 community. Sergio Perez, racing for Red Bull, collided with Carlos Sainz of Ferrari, dramatically affecting the outcomes for both drivers and their teams. This collision shattered Perez’s hopes for a podium finish—an achievement he had been eyeing since April—and dealt a blow to Red Bull’s standings in the constructors’ championship.

The race itself was marked by standout performances, with Oscar Piastri claiming victory and Lando Norris making an impressive climb from 15th on the grid to finish fourth. Max Verstappen managed to secure fifth place, adding more competition to an already intense season. These results have brought notable shifts in the team standings, propelling McLaren to the top, a position they haven’t held since 2014. Currently, McLaren leads with 476 points, followed closely by Red Bull with 456 points, and Ferrari in third with 425 points.

As the Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes are now on the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, scheduled for the forthcoming weekend. Following this event, there will be a three-week break before the season resumes with a triple-header in Austin, Mexico, and Brazil. These races are expected to be decisive in the fierce competition between the leading teams.

Antonio Perez Garibay’s health scare serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes and emotional toll involved in professional racing. As he continues his recovery under close medical supervision, the Perez family remains grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. This incident highlights the intricate link between the personal lives of those involved in high-octane sports and the dramatic events that unfold on the racetrack.