Antonio Pérez Garibay, father of famous F1 driver Sergio Pérez, recently suffered a serious health scare. After his son collided with Carlos Sainz at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Antonio was found unconscious in the bathroom of his home, suffering from a myocardial infarction, a serious precursor to a heart attack.
The tragedy occurred late in the race, shortly after Pérez collided with Carlos Sainz at high speed. Fortunately, as reported by the Mirror, Pérez’s family have confirmed that Antonio Pérez Garibay has been released from hospital and is in good health. The statement read:
“After spending several days in the hospital, Mr. Antonio Pérez Garibay has been released and is now continuing his recovery at home with his loved ones.”
“Through this statement, Mr Pérez Garibay and Scuderia Pérez would like to express their sincere gratitude to friends, family and the media for the countless expressions of love, support and solidarity they have shown during this time.”
Sergio Pérez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing walk through the paddock before the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku City Circuit in Baku, Azerbaijan, September 15, 2024. Sergio Pérez’s father has been released from hospital. Detail: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
“Don Antonio will continue his recovery following his doctor’s orders. We would like to thank everyone again for their understanding and support. We will continue to pay close attention to updates regarding his health.”
Antonio himself speculates that the stress of his son’s accident may have contributed to his health condition.
“It all happened after the accident. The shock of the accident could have been the cause. Cardiac tests are already being carried out to see why I fainted.”
Reflecting on the accident which ended his hopes of a podium finish, the Mexican driver commented (quoted by Formula1.com):
“Coming out of Turn 2, I felt there was enough space between the two cars, but we made contact within a metre or two of each other.
“It’s very unfortunate. It all happened so quickly. I think Carlos was trying to follow the tow of Charles who went to the inside and that made things very difficult.”
He added:
“[The pace today is] Large-scale [positive]I think I had the pace to fight for the win today, so hopefully I can keep this up and be really strong in the coming races and weekends.”
As well as destroying Perez’s chances of a much-needed podium, his crash paved the way for McLaren to overtake Red Bull in the constructors’ standings.
2024 Constructors’ Championship: Current standings
1. McLaren – 476 points
2. Red Bull – 456 points
3. Ferrari – 425 points
4. Mercedes – 309 points
5. Aston Martin – 82 points
6. VCARB – 34 points
7. Haas – 29 points
8. Williams – 16 points
9. Alpine – 13 points
10. Sauber – 0 points
