Formula 1 driver Sergio Pérez expressed his admiration and respect for the legend of Mexican sports, Fernando Valenzuela, during an event prior to the Mexico Grand Prix. Following Valenzuela's passing, Pérez highlighted the legacy he left as an athlete and as a person, as well as the inspiration he provided to many people in Mexico.
In his statements, Pérez praised Valenzuela's career, who was originally from Etchohuaquila, Navojoa, Sonora, and emphasized how every time the 'Toro' appeared, he raised the name of Mexico, filling millions of people in the country with pride. The Mexican driver described the news as sad but also remembered Valenzuela as a legend for Mexico.
Reactions to Fernando Valenzuela's death have also been numerous in the sports world. Personalities like Hugo Sánchez, José Ramón Fernández, Pepe Segarra, Carlos Hermosillo, and Julio César Chávez expressed their admiration for the sports legacy left by the 'Toro', highlighting his achievements and the sense of pride he generated across a whole nation every time he appeared on the diamond. Valenzuela will be remembered in Mexico as one of the most emblematic and brilliant figures in the country's sports history.
