Oct.9 (GMM) Two formula one rookies are struggling through the Suzuka weekend at less than full throttle.

Sauber's Sergio Perez revealed just before qualifying that he is not feeling well with the flu.

"When he said that during an interview I took a step back," smiled BBC commentator David Coulthard, who said the Mexican was looking "rather grey".

Also under the weather in Japan is Force India's Paul di Resta, who is battling a virus that is causing a sore throat and fever.

"By all means it's not ideal and the last place you would want it is here when you've two races on the bounce," said the Scot, referring to F1's forthcoming jump to South Korea.

"At the moment, I'm not recovering and I don't know if it's at its worst yet, but it's not easy and this circuit is one of the more physical places as well," added di Resta.

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