Helmut Marko decided not to address the controversy surrounding him in Singapore this weekend after his recent remarks regarding Sergio Perez sparked outrage.
Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko offensive remarks in an interview with Red Bull-owned station Servus TV claiming the Mexican was less focused than Max Verstappen and former Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel because he was “South American,” for which he later apologized.
Perez received support from the organizers of the Mexico City Grand Prix on the issue. However, as Formula 1 heads to Singapore this weekend, Marko will try to put the incident behind him by declining to comment on the subject.
Marko has frequently expressed his concerns about Perez and his performances this season in public, implying that his spot for 2024 may still not be guaranteed despite claims from Red Bull team owner Christian Horner that he will continue to drive alongside Verstappen in 2024.
Marko apologized for his “offensive remark” after his remarks drew harsh criticism last week, and he has since stated that he won’t be discussing the subject when Formula 1 heads to Singapore this weekend.
“If there are questions about that, I won’t answer them. I will only talk about sporting matters,” Marko told F1-Insider.
Reigning world champion Max Verstappen set an all-time F1 record by winning his tenth straight race at Monza last time out, so Red Bull enters the weekend seeking to maintain their unblemished streak this season, which currently stands at 14 consecutive race wins.
However, this week, Marko and the Red Bull drivers feel that the particular challenges at Marina Bay may cause them issues.
“A lot can always happen there,” the Red Bull boss said. “Verstappen has never won in Singapore.
“Last year there was a misunderstanding with him in qualifying.
“That meant the race was already over. Fortunately, Sergio then took the victory.
“Recently, turns 16 to 19 have been dropped.
“That makes the circuit faster and more unpredictable for us in the run-up.
“But I’m most worried about Ferrari. They were already very strong in Monza.
“One thing is certain: Once we’ve come through Singapore on a positive note, I’ll be able to sleep a little easier.”
