Helmut Marko confirms Max Verstappen will have bodyguards at the Mexican GP over threats on social media

Max Verstappen has received numerous threats on social media ahead of the Mexican GP.

Helmut Marko confirms Max Verstappen will have bodyguards at the Mexican GP over threats on social media

Dr. Helmut Marko, Max Verstappen and Christian Horner (Via: IMAGO)

Max Verstappen has dominated the 2023 F1 season. The Dutch driver has outperformed teammate Sergio Perez throughout the year. This has led to resentment for the three-time world champion in Perez’s home country, Mexico. Subsequently, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko revealed that Verstappen will have bodyguards for the Mexican GP weekend.

The 26-year-old received boos at the United States GP at COTA last weekend. Additionally, Max Verstappen has been the target of numerous threats on social media. As such, Red Bull decided to increase the security for the three-time world champion. Though, Helmut Marko mentioned that Verstappen is not keen on having bodyguards.

It is the responsibility of the Austrian team to protect its driver. Thus, two bodyguards will be accompanying Verstappen throughout the weekend at Mexico City. Previously, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner stated that the team did not expect a positive reception from fans this weekend. As such it is essential to prepare for any situation that could arise in the paddock.

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Max doesn’t really want that [bodyguards] and is relaxed. But we have responsibility for him. Therefore we only want to be on the safe side.

Helmut Marko told F1-insider.com

Red Bull set for a difficult outing at Sergio Perez’s home race

Red Bull will be at a tough spot at the Mexican GP. While Sergio Perez is expected to receive a grand reception from his fans at his home race, Max Verstappen and the team might face backlash from the attendees at the track. This can be credited to the massive disparity in performence between the two drivers at Milton Keynes.

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen in the Red Bull garage
Christian Horner and Max Verstappen in the Red Bull garage (image via IMAGO)

Although, Red Bull insists that Perez has simply failed to match the results of his world-champion teammate. Many fans of the Mexican driver believe that the Austrian team has favoured Verstappen. Nevertheless, the Milton Keynes-based team would be looking to have a smooth weekend without any external issues as it continues to lead the pack at the pinnacle of motorsport.

Max Verstappen remains the favourite for the Mexican GP. The Dutch driver has continued his dominant run this year with a string of good results. Verstappen will be carrying the momentum from his stellar race win at COTA last weekend into the Mexican GP. Although, it remains to be seen if Sergio Perez can put up a fight in front of his home fans.

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