Helmut Marko claims F1 would be ‘boring’ without races like 2024 British GP

Helmut Marko reckoned that F1 needed more competitive races like the British GP last weekend.

Helmut Marko claims F1 would be ‘boring’ without races like 2024 British GP

Helmut Marko, Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO)

Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko praised Lewis Hamilton after he ended his two-and-a-half-year winless streak at the 2024 British GP. Marko admits that races like the British GP are much needed and important. Because the race had dynamic weather conditions which added extra challenges to the tight competition between Mercedes, McLaren and Red Bull.

Helmut Marko during an interview was told that Max Verstappen expressed his worries about their performance. He said by being this slow they wouldn’t be able to win the world championship. Marko acknowledged that Verstappen really wants to win, which is completely understandable following his competitive nature. However, he also believed that races with close competition, like Hamilton’s win at the British GP, can actually be beneficial for the reputation of Formula 1. These exciting races attract fans and keep the sport interesting, even if they don’t always end in victory for Red Bull or Max Verstappen.

Max wants to win, of course, and that's understandable. Although races like this are not bad for the sporting image of Formula 1.
Helmut Marko told Oe24
YouTube video

Marko expressed that without the excitement and close battles between teams and drivers, Formula 1 would lack interest and entertainment. He believed that the challenges and rivalries on the track keep fans engaged and make the races enjoyable to watch. The 81-year-old highlighted that without this competitive spirit, F1 wouldn’t have the same appeal, and fans might find it boring. So to make the competition more thrilling, intensity must be present.

FS Video
Otherwise it would actually be boring.
Helmut Marko added

Helmut Marko dismisses speculation over Max Verstappen joining Mercedes in 2025

Ahead of the interview, the reporter asked Helmut Marko that if Mercedes became the fastest car, would Max Verstappen accept the seat offered by Toto Wolff. Marko responded that such speculation is not their concern. He emphasized that currently, the team is focused on winning the World Championship. They are also working to ensure Sergio Perez gets back to his best form, rather than entertaining potential future moves or rumors. Red Bull’s priority is to stay committed to their current goals and performance.

If, if. That's all speculation. We're not going along with that, we're focused on winning the World Championship. And on making sure Perez gets back to normal form.
Helmut Marko stated
Toto Wolff and Max Verstappen(via IMAGO)
Toto Wolff and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Marko stated that Mercedes has improved their performance recently, which is a positive step for the team. However, he pointed out that just because they are doing better doesn’t mean they have the fastest car on the grid. He noted that the conditions at Silverstone, particularly the cooler temperatures during the race, played a significant role in helping Mercedes perform well. If their car is actually fast, they need to perform the same in different weather conditions.

Mercedes have taken a step forward. But that doesn't mean they have the fastest car yet. Silverstone with its cool temperatures was good for Mercedes.
Helmut Marko added

Certainly, Helmut Marko reckoned Max Verstappen and the team is currently focused on winning the championships. They are not concerned about the next season until this season concludes. Mercedes need to perform in more challenging situations to prove they’re the best team for the reigning world champion.

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