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via Getty

via Getty

As the unsaid practice goes in F1, every team, expressly or impliedly, has a number 1 and a number 2 driver. During his time at Mercedes, Valtteri Bottas was a great servant to the team, often putting the team’s result ahead of putting his own interests. However, his willingness to play the team game earned him an unwanted reputation. Currently, at Red Bull, Sergio Perez is playing a similar role. Helmut Marko, however, recently insisted that it wasn’t the case, as Red Bull did not have such a hierarchy between Max Verstappen and Checo. The comments, however, failed to convince fans who felt the Austrian team was living in delusion.

Whenever Verstappen fails to deliver results for the team (as rare as that is), Perez is always there to put his hand up. Moreover, the Mexican always puts the team’s interest above his own, most famously giving up his position at Abu Dhabi in 2021 to let Max win his maiden world championship title. Despite all of it, many believed his place on the team was not secure since Daniel Ricciardo’s arrival.

Fans mock Red Bull for ‘no favorite driver’ stand

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In a recent interview with Sport.de, Helmut Marko heaped praise on Perez for surviving 2 years with Max. He lauded the Mexican driver for his grit and determination and stressed the team’s no number 1, number 2 driver stand. He insisted that the first place was not a given for Verstappen and Perez was capable of taking the fight to the Dutchman in his own right.

Fans, however, found the statement to be delusional and untrue. Have a look at some reactions from Twitter.

Read More: “Hamilton Can Do Whatever He Wants”: Valtteri Bottas Exposes Mercedes’ Toxic Culture as Lewis’ Privileges Face Backlash Online

Marko talked about their aim for getting the 1-2 in standings in 2023. As it was obvious that he was talking about the drivers’ championship, he did not expressly say it. One fan took a little swipe at that.

Some fans found Marko’s comments so unbelievable that they wondered whether he was in his right senses.

Another fan reminded Red Bull of last year’s Brazilian GP when Verstappen defied team orders and did not let Perez pass. As they did not see Max being reprimanded for his actions, they rubbished the no “first place belongs to Verstappen” claims.

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Do you believe Helmut Marko’s claim? Is there really no hierarchy between Max and Checo?