GREAT BRITAIN: Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has intensified his criticism of Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko’s recent comments about Sergio Perez, denouncing them as “madness” in today’s progressive era.
Marko stirred controversy after misidentifying Perez, Formula 1’s sole Mexican driver, as South American following the Italian Grand Prix last month. He went on to suggest that Perez’s performance alongside teammate Max Verstappen in 2023 was influenced by his background.
In the lead-up to the Singapore Grand Prix, it was revealed that Marko personally apologized to Perez, with Mercedes leading the charge in condemning the 80-year-old’s remarks.
Lewis Hamilton, an outspoken advocate against discrimination, deemed Marko’s comments “completely unacceptable.” Wolff echoed these sentiments, expressing disbelief that such a mindset could exist in Formula 1.
Wolff further emphasized that age should not serve as an excuse for Marko’s comments. He stated, “Such statements are madness in our time. They can’t be excused by his age. But I think he has learned his lesson.”
Max Verstappen is poised to secure his third consecutive World Championship title at the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix. A sixth-place finish in the sprint race on Saturday would be sufficient to clinch the crown.
Wolff, currently absent from Lusail due to recent knee surgery, appeared to downplay Verstappen’s achievements. After Verstappen notched a record 10th consecutive win at the Italian Grand Prix last month, Wolff remarked that such statistics were only relevant on Wikipedia.
Despite the rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull, which intensified during the 2021 Championship battle between Hamilton and Verstappen, Wolff asserted that he would extend congratulations to his competitors, particularly compatriot Helmut Marko, upon Verstappen’s title win.
While Hamilton triumphed during F1’s prior visit to Qatar in 2021, which stands as his second-to-last F1 victory to date, Wolff believes Mercedes may have to wait until races in Mexico and Brazil for their next realistic chances at victory.
When asked if Hamilton could contend for another win this weekend, Wolff responded, “No. With so many corners, our car is still unpredictable. I expect more in Mexico or Brazil. Until then, I want to be fit and on the spot again.”
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