F1 News: Helmut Marko Calls For Peace At Red Bull - "This Is Quite A Hard Job"
After talks with Red Bull GmbH Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff, team advisor Helmut Marko has confirmed his commitment to Red Bull. Despite previous hints of suspension before the Australian Grand Prix, Marko will be present in Melbourne. He thanked Max Verstappen for his support amid internal unrest and emphasized the priority of securing Verstappen's fourth championship title.
Key Takeaways:
- Despite previous speculation, Red Bull team advisor Helmut Marko has confirmed his commitment to the team after discussions with Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff. Expressing gratitude to Max Verstappen for support amid internal unrest, Marko emphasized the focus on securing Verstappen's fourth championship title.
- Verstappen promptly defended Marko, suggesting that the advisor's potential exit could prompt him to reassess his options within the team.
- Acknowledging recent attention, Marko stressed the importance of resilience in Formula 1 and supported Jos Verstappen's call for peace within the team to achieve championship goals.
Verstappen quickly came to Marko's defense after the advisor mentioned his potential suspension this week, suggesting that Marko's departure could prompt him to reassess his choices within the team.
Expressing gratitude to the Dutchman, here's what Marko told Viaplay:
"There are not so many people who have such a strong character and, as you said, loyalty. I am proud and thankful for his words."
Speaking about his positive meeting with Mintzlaff, Marko added:
"It was a good meeting.
"I will be in Melbourne. All these rumours, they were not official, but it was good to clear the situation."
Marko drew significant attention recently due to discussions about his suspension, in addition to the controversy involving team principal Christian Horner. He emphasized the necessity of resilience in Formula 1, stating that one must endure such challenges to thrive in the sport. He added:
"I don't know how many years in motor racing, very long. Especially in Formula One, if you can't stand such things, then you won't survive."
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The 80-year-old team advisor also opened up on the situation within the team, siding with Verstappen's father, Jos Verstappen, that peace is needed to win the championship. He added:
"But in the end, like Jos said, we need some more peace in the team because we are trying to win the championship. That is quite a hard job. There will be circuits where we are not so super or not winning. That's a goal, a fourth title for Max."