Helmut Marko BLASTS Sergio Perez, claims the Mexican needs a ‘team change’

Sergio Perez has not been on the podium since Monza.

Helmut Marko BLASTS Sergio Perez, claims the Mexican needs a ‘team change’

Sergio Perez and Helmut Marko. (Via IMAGO)

Sergio Perez‘s once-promising season has morphed into a challenging ordeal, marked by a noticeable downturn in performance since his last triumph in Baku back in April. Initially a strong contender against his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen for the championship, Perez’s momentum hit a roadblock after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The Mexican was unable to secure a victory since then, while Max continued to dominate the season and clinched the title.

Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko has not minced words about Perez’s struggles, calling for a significant improvement in form. Even the typically supportive team chief, Christian Horner, criticized Perez following a disastrous weekend at the Qatar Grand Prix, where Perez managed to secure only a single point compared to Verstappen’s 33.

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In an interview with OE24, Marko’s recent comments reflect the growing concern within the Red Bull camp. When asked his view on former F1 driver, Gerhard Berger’s suggestion suggestion for Perez to leave Red Bull, Marko said, “You don’t want to hear an answer from me on that just before the Mexican Grand Prix.” He refrained himself from offering any more harsh critique ahead of Perez’s home race.

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When questioned about his association with Sergio Perez, Helmut Marko expressed satisfaction, noting, “Very good. He supported me massively.” However, he acknowledged the challenges Perez is facing, stating, “That was already the case with Gasly (2020). Seen this way, Berger’s statement is the right one: Perez needs a climate and team change.”

Related: Helmut Marko claims Fernando Alonso is the ‘only driver’ capable of matching Max Verstappen

Helmut Marko claims everybody knows that Sergio Perez is in a ‘crisis’

The pressure on Perez has intensified as his struggles jeopardize his runner-up position in the championship. Despite a 200+ point gap to Verstappen, Perez now faces the looming threat of Lewis Hamilton, who, despite crashing out in the opening lap at Qatar, managed to outscore Perez. With only five races left in the season, the possibility of Hamilton overtaking Perez in the standings is becoming a harsh reality.

Helmut Marko and Sergio Perez
Helmut Marko and Sergio Perez (Credits: PlanetF1)

Marko’s words serve as a clear ultimatum for Perez. While expressing hope for a turnaround, he remarked, “Now let’s see how the next two races go. But the team and he are aware that he is in a crisis.” Time is ticking for Perez to prove himself at Red Bull, but despite the pressure, Marko stressed the team’s support. “Checo just has to get the best out of it without looking at Verstappen,” he said, expressing hope for Perez’s redemption.

Looking ahead, Marko acknowledged the challenges awaiting Perez in the upcoming races, particularly the Sprint race in the USA, which might not play to Perez’s strengths. “That doesn’t make it any easier for him,” Marko admitted. The Austrian hopes that Austin will be a good fit for the Mexican and then it will work again on his home turf.

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