Perez honours Venezuela earthquake victims with helmet tribute at Austrian GP

Sergio Perez carried a tribute to the victims of Venezuela’s devastating twin earthquakes on his helmet at the Austrian Grand Prix, adding a special sticker to honour those killed and displaced by the disaster that struck on 24 June.

The two earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, have left an official death toll above 1,400, with tens of thousands still reported missing. The United Nations confirmed that almost 1,500 pieces of infrastructure were damaged, more than 3,100 families have been displaced, and local authorities have recorded more than 430 aftershocks.

“Thinking of everyone in Venezuela. Stay strong,” Perez wrote on social media alongside a photo of his helmet bearing the tribute sticker.

Perez was among a number of public figures to offer solidarity with those affected. Pope Leo also posted a message of support, writing: “I wish to express my solidarity with our Venezuelan brothers and sisters affected by the recent earthquakes, which have caused numerous deaths and injuries, as well as extensive damage to property. Praying to the Lord for the eternal rest of the deceased, I renew my spiritual solidarity with their families, the injured, and all who have been shaken by this tragedy. I also wish to express my gratitude and encouragement to those generously working on search and rescue efforts and providing assistance.”

On track at the Red Bull Ring, Perez’s weekend ended in early disappointment. Starting 19th on the grid, the Mexican driver retired on lap five after reporting smoke in the cockpit. His Cadillac team-mate Valtteri Bottas, who had separately reported that his brakes were on fire, also retired on the same lap.

Perez currently sits 21st in the drivers’ championship without a points finish to his name this season.