Red Bull Advisor Hits Back At Sergio Perez After Complaining Of Car Issues: "Caused His Own Problem"
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has reflected on the teams' performance at the Australian Grand Prix. After hailing Max Verstappen for his first win at the event, he went on to slate Sergio Perez, claiming that he "caused his own problem".
The Australian Grand Prix was full of on-track drama with multiple safety cars, retirements, and red flags. Verstappen started in pole position but quickly lost the lead to George Russell who started beside him on the front row. Shortly after, Russell's teammate Lewis Hamilton overtook the Belgian-Dutch driver as well.
Marko spoke to de Telegraaf, praising Verstappen for doing what he needed to do during those battles to come out on top. He explained:
"Max also did what he had to do in those battles at the beginning. Mercedes had nothing to lose, so they went for it.
"After overtaking Hamilton, Max controlled the race. And you know when he and Lewis get close, there is always fire.
"Max was right in not taking all the risks because he is going for the championship."
Perez started the Australian Grand Prix from 20th in the pit lane after a disastrous qualifying session. The Mexican driver was struggling with the RB19 during Free Practice 3 and again complained about a "similar issue" on his car causing him to spin out and beach it during Q1 of qualifying.
Although Perez was pointing blame to issues on the car for his ongoing problems this weekend, Marko is adamant that he brought those issues onto himself. He went on to add:
"Sergio Perez caused his own problem here."