Helmut Marko: Verstappen's 'Uncontrollable' fastest lap in Red Bull drama

Max Verstappen's relentless pursuit of success was on display at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 as he secured the fastest lap, increasing tensions within Red Bull Racing. The incident highlights the fierce competition within the team and Verstappen's unrelenting drive to succeed.

Helmut Marko: Verstappen's 'Uncontrollable' fastest lap in Red Bull drama
Helmut Marko talking to Max Verstappen and Christian Horner - Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool

In a display of undeterred determination, Max Verstappen captured the fastest lap at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, outpacing teammate Sergio Perez and increasing the tension within Red Bull Racing.

Verstappen's relentless drive for success has been a signature of his Formula 1 career, and his pursuit of the fastest lap in Jeddah provided further evidence of his uncompromising nature.

During the closing stages of the race, Verstappen sought information on the fastest lap from his team radio.

Red Bull Racing team podium in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Red Bull Racing team podium in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 - Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool

Red Bull Racing replied that it was not their priority, but the two-time World Champion persisted, ultimately claiming the fastest lap on the final circuit.

Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing's advisor, discussed the incident with Austrian broadcaster ORF: "Typical Max on the last lap with the fastest race lap. That was uncontrollable. That's just Max."

"Both were constantly asking who had the fastest lap, and Max waited until the last lap so Perez couldn't counter. It means the lead in the world championship for him. We are very satisfied with the race."

However, Perez expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, claiming he received different information than Verstappen.

Sergio Perez celebrating after winning Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023
Sergio Perez celebrating after winning Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023 - Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool

Addressing the matter, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner explained that Perez also attempted to improve his lap time but ultimately backed off when he couldn't.

Horner said, "Both drivers had the info, Checo had the fastest lap at that point, he asked what it was, so it was obvious why he was asking."

"He knew that Max was going to have a crack at it, and Checo gave it up after the first couple of turns, he was already a tenth and a half down, and then you saw him back out of it."

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