Helmut Marko, a key figure at Red Bull Racing, has expressed his disappointment with Sergio Perez’s actions during the Austrian Grand Prix Sprint race, labelling it as “not good teamwork” by the Mexican driver.
Max Verstappen and Perez started the race in first and second positions, respectively, with Perez making a strong start and taking the lead into the first corner.
However, Verstappen quickly regained the lead, narrowly avoiding a collision with Perez in the process.
Unimpressed with his teammate’s conduct, Verstappen exclaimed over the team radio, “He pushed me off, man, what the f***?”
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Perez also contacted his team on the pit wall, questioning, “What’s wrong with Max, man?”
Following the race, which Verstappen won, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner reminded both drivers that while they should race aggressively, fairness should also be maintained.
Marko, speaking to Sky Germany after the sprint race, echoed Horner’s sentiments, expressing his belief that Perez’s actions were not in line with good teamwork, particularly considering the wet conditions.
“We’re glad to have achieved first and second place. However, the first lap was quite exciting, I must say,” Marko commented.
“Perez had a better start, which is all fine. But what unfolded afterward, especially in wet conditions, with drivers being forced onto the grass, is not quite in line with good teamwork.”
Marko expressed relief that the situation did not have more serious consequences for the Red Bull duo but acknowledged that the team needs to address what occurred.
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He reflected, “In these conditions, when the grass is wet, if you manage to keep the car under control, thank God it turned out well. Now, let’s calm things down a bit. But of course, we need to address it.”
The incident highlighted the delicate balance between aggressive racing and maintaining team unity within Red Bull Racing.
While Verstappen’s frustration and Perez’s questionable manoeuvres added tension to their battle, the team’s strong overall performance in the race allowed them to secure a dominant one-two finish.