Helmut Marko claims FIA wanted to ‘set an example’ with Max Verstappen’ harsh penalty

Helmut Marko criticizes inconsistent steward decisions, claiming Max Verstappen's harsh penalty to be aimed at setting an example.

Helmut Marko claims FIA wanted to ‘set an example’ with Max Verstappen’ harsh penalty

Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen faced severe sanctions at the 2024 Mexican GP after aggressively defending against Lando Norris. The Dutchman received a 20-second penalty for exceeding track limits while pushing Norris.

Verstappen argued this was too harsh compared to the five-second penalty Norris got for a similar incident in Austin. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko stated that the governing body aimed to set an example to discourage dangerous moves on the track.

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Max Verstappen‘s aggressive maneuvers against Lando Norris during the Mexican GP raised concerns about driver safety. By forcing Norris off the track and gaining an unfair advantage, the Dutchman put both drivers at risk of a serious accident.

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Such reckless driving, even if unintentional, goes against fair play and risks driver’s safety. The stewards gave the 27-year-old tougher penalties than Norris to prevent further incidents like this. They assumed that none of them would risk making such moves again, especially with the championship on the line. Helmut Marko saw this as a clear attempt to set an example, but he wasn’t happy that the Red Bull driver was the one targeted for it.

They wanted to set an example with the harsh penalty against our driver. The problem is that the stewards decide one way and then another. There’s no clear line nor consistency.

Helmut Marko told OE24

This incident has raised questions about the inconsistency of the stewards in making and enforcing rules. Marko reckoned that some former drivers among the stewards might not like Verstappen’s aggressive racing style and attitude.

As the Dutchman aims for his fourth consecutive championship, dislikers seem to create obstacles in his way. The 81-year-old believes F1 should focus on hiring such stewards who are neutral and can make fair decisions based on clear rules. This would help eliminate bias and ensure every judgment is fair, protecting the integrity of the sport.

We need standardised rules. We don’t necessarily need ex-racing drivers, we need professional stewards: people who are unbiased and make objective judgements according to established rules.

Helmut Marko stated
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Helmut Marko believes ‘it won’t be easy’ for Max Verstappen to chase fourth title

Max Verstappen’s performance in Mexico declined mainly due to engine issues, as he reported lacking pace compared to Lando Norris. With only a 47-point gap between him and Norris in the title race, Verstappen is eager to maintain his lead as the season nears its end.

Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen
Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen (Via: Imago)

To address this, Helmut Marko announced that they will install a new engine in Brazil, resulting in a five-place grid penalty. This move complicates matters for the 27-year-old, as the Brit has been fast and is likely to secure pole position in qualifying.

I don’t see it as easy. We will need a new engine and will therefore receive an engine penalty.

Helmut Marko said
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Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

However, having a new engine would benefit the Austrian team as they’ll have more horsepower and greater pace compared to Mexico. Red Bull currently sits in third place behind Ferrari, as both drivers from the Maranello squad performed at their peak, putting the Austrian team at a disadvantage.