Sergio Perez sounds confident his teammate Max Verstappen will play a supportive role if needed in the Brazilian GP, aiding him to secure second spot in the 2023 standings. Amidst a season with more downs and negative rumours than ups, Perez might be misguided in relying on teamwork to achieve Red Bull’s vision of a flawless season finish.
Indeed, Red Bull’s top brass and triple world champion Verstappen himself have not-so-subtly dismissed the notion of any premeditated teamwork that would compromise the Dutchman’s race. Dr. Helmut Marko, arguably the most powerful voice in Red Bull’s F1 strategy, insists that while Perez is fully capable of clinching second place, Verstappen will not sacrifice his own race. “Max will do his thing. He won’t give up a win,” Marko stated, firmly.
Verstappen reiterates this sentiment, suggesting that the responsibility for securing points rests on both drivers’ shoulders – individually. It’s a stark contrast to Perez’s assumptions, with the Mexican admitting: “We didn’t talk about it, but if such a situation arises, I’m sure Max will help me.”
Max, though, was burned by surprise team tactics at Interlagos a year ago. “Last year, it wasn’t really well spoken about before we got into the race weekend, but let’s just hope that we don’t get into that situation. I think that’s better for everyone.
“I think at the end of the day, it shouldn’t always depend on me, you know, to get the points,” the 26-year-old added.
