Perez wants Monaco redemption

Sergio Perez believes he has a point to prove heading into this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.

Perez has admitted memories of last year's horrifying smash in qualifying will remain with him for the rest of his life.

The young Mexican spent two nights in Princess Grace hospital after wrapping his Sauber around a barrier, the repercussions of which ruled him out of the subsequent race in Canada.

With Monaco's harbour serving as a backdrop as he spoke a year on from the incident, Perez said: "After such a big accident as last year it's not easy being here.

"But it is great, unbelievable in a way, so I'm very happy to be back and I'm looking forward to getting out on track, recovering well, to fight for position, for every single tenth of a second.

"It's my favourite track, one where I always believe a driver can make a difference. Hopefully it will be the perfect weekend for us."

Asked as to his feelings on his first flying lap, in particular as he emerges out of the tunnel and down into the Port Chicane, the scene of his accident, Perez said: "I don't know.

"I think my mind will be completely fresh, but I will never forget the accident.

"I remember everything up until the crash and then when I went to the hospital because I was unconscious for about four minutes.

"It took me a while to recover. I tried to get back in the car in Montreal but it was just impossible.

"Then I drove in Valencia, but it was very difficult. It took me four or five races to fully get over what happened."

In his debut season last year Perez had qualified in the top 10 for the first time when he lost control of his car in the final 10-minute shoot-out.

"I definitely think I have something to prove this year," added Perez.

"Last year I was in a great position. I could have had a great race, but I was very unlucky with the accident.

"This year I think with the car we have and being so close to the top, our target has to be to fight for the podium."

The track authorities have increased the grip to the asphalt heading into the Port Chicane ahead of this race, something Perez hopes will be of benefit.

Perez said: "It's a positive change. I've seen it and I think they've done a good job.

"It's important we keep working on the safety for all of us, particularly somewhere like here.

"You are very tight to the wall, which is not really a very nice feeling, but it's Monaco, which is why this track is so special."