Red Bull chief Helmut Marko BLAMES driver following Azerbaijan GP crash

Red Bull

Red Bull chief BLAMES driver following Azerbaijan GP crash

Sergio Perez crashed out of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after colliding with Carlos Sainz

Kevin McKenna

Wednesday 18 September 2024 04:00

Red Bull chief Helmut Marko has expressed his frustration following Sergio Perez's huge crash at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, but has made it very clear who he blames for the incident.

The Mexican driver was involved in a four-car train at the front of the order when on the penultimate lap in Baku, he and Carlos Sainz collided, sending both crashing into the barrier.

Article continues under video

The incident prompted a yellow flag, which remained in place for the remainder of the race, allowing Oscar Piastri to clinch his second career victory in comfort having faced significant pressure from pole-setter Charles Leclerc throughout.

George Russell was the lucky beneficiary of the crash, with the Brit stealing in to claim an unexpected spot in the podium.

Sergio Perez crashed out in Baku following a crash with Carlos Sainz

McLaren have replaced Red Bull at the top of the constructors' standings

'Unnecessary' collision sparks anger

Speaking to shortly after the chequered flag, Red Bull boss Marko offered his reaction to what was another disappointing day for the team.

With just seven races remaining, they now trail McLaren in the standings by 20 points, as their hopes of winning a third straight title took a potentially fatal hit.

In an interview with Sky Germany, the Austrian said: "Now we have to see if we will be able to put the car back together,"

"We will be able to put the car back but not in the way we planned it, especially what we planned for Singapore at trial times is not possible now.

"So it is a massive setback.”

Helmut Marko was frustrated after losing out on crucial championship points

The 81-year-old went on to lay the blame for the incident squarely at the door of Sainz, as he criticized the Spaniard's actions.

“I see Sainz's abrupt move to the left - that caused the crash. I don't think it is necessary to provoke something like that two laps before the end," he added.

"Perez came out much better. Of course, he didn't do it on purpose, he stayed on his line.

"If something like that happens to beginners that would not be a surprise but not with two drivers with such experience.

"It cost us a lot of points. Now for Singapore, it will be even more difficult - that's a shame.”

Red Bull Max Verstappen McLaren Lando Norris Charles Leclerc Sergio Perez