Timo Glock feels Sergio Perez could be the vital difference between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton in the Formula 1 title race this year.

Red Bull and Mercedes are geared up for a five-race shootout for both the Constructors' and Drivers' titles with our next destination the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend.

Certainly, the advantage is currently with the Bulls after a double podium finish at the last two races and they'll be looking to overhaul Mercedes in the Constructors' standings, whilst Verstappen leads the Drivers' by 12 points.

Indeed, in recent weeks we've seen improved performance from Sergio Perez to really help the Red Bull cause and, with him contracted to be at the team for 2022 whilst Mercedes' other driver Valtteri Bottas leaves at the end of this season, Timo Glock feels that that factor could be what helps bring the championship away from Mercedes and Hamilton:

"Mercedes made the early decision to replace Valtteri Bottas with George Russell for the coming season," Glock told Speed Week.

"But now, Mercedes can no longer completely rely on Bottas. And you can already see it with the way the Finn behaves in certain situations. Look at Russia, where the fastest race lap was his biggest goal.

"Red Bull can rely very well on Perez, who will give Max support.

"This is also about the future, and Sergio, who has been confirmed for 2022, will clearly do everything possible to support his team in the best possible way."