“Max Verstappen Doesn’t Need Him”: F1 Winner Questions Helmut Marko’s Redundant Red Bull Role

Max Verstappen has been faultless in the 2023 season. With 21 podiums in a 22-race calendar with 19 wins, we doubt anyone would be able to break or even match this record in the near future, except the Dutchman himself. This scenario was given a fresh perspective from a former racer, Gerhard Berger, concerning the role of Dr. Helmut Marko.

Red Bull‘s motorsport director has been one of the longest-serving members of the team and is also head of the driver development program. Rising through the ranks in the program, Marko and Verstappen formed a lasting and special bond which Verstappen proved with his loyalty toward the Austrian. However, with Verstappen current level of output, does he need him?

Gerhard Berger questions the usefulness of Helmut Marko in the life of Max Verstappen

Gerhard Berger, in an exclusive with Krone, talked about the relevance of Marko in the life of the Dutchman with his hilarious take. The Austrian former racer suggested Marko’s role is to criticize his drivers and Verstappen hasn’t given him a peep all year. With such an output, does he require Marko’s input?

Berger said, “Being on the podium 21 times in 22 races without making a single mistake – that probably says everything about his class. Yes, of course. And that’s exactly what has become the biggest handicap for Helmut Marko (Red Bull’s motorsport director) because Max doesn’t need him. With zero errors, Helmut simply has nothing to criticize.” (Translated via Google)

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We are sure the motorsport director has more duties than criticizing drivers in the extended Red Bull family. However, it is surely something he does often and no one can lift a finger on Verstappen in 2023. However, the same cannot be said about Sergio Perez and there was some finger-pointing. Berger joked about this scenario as well and suggested the Mexican has kept Marko busy.

Sergio Perez has kept Helmut Marko relevant

With all due respect, Perez has kept Marko relevant is the suggestion made by Berger. The Austrian mocked his fellow countryman with the suggestion he likes to criticize and Perez has given him ample opportunities in the current season, as we all know. Moreover, Marko has taken those opportunities with multiple brutally critical statements targeted at the Mexican.

Berger mocked this scenario and the Mexican in the exclusive as well. He said, “On the other side of the Red Bull garage is the Mexican Sergio Pérez. Yes, if you lump Max and Pérez together, then on average Helmut will be fine again. Just looking at Leclerc’s overtaking maneuver against Pérez on the last lap of the Grand Prix in Las Vegas, I have to say that not even a beginner makes such a mistake.”

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Almost every expert has criticized the Mexican. Perhaps he can gain the respect back in 2024 as he tries to challenge for the championship once again.