The Canadian Grand Prix witnessed another impressive display of skill and dominance from Red Bull Racing's star driver, Max Verstappen. With his sixth victory of the season, Verstappen not only extended his lead in the World Championship but also helped secure Red Bull Racing's 100th Formula 1 win. However, his teammate Sergio Perez seemed to struggle significantly throughout the race weekend, unable to match Verstappen's pace. Team advisor Helmut Marko has now provided an explanation for this glaring performance gap between two drivers sharing the same car.
Verstappen’s Continued Success
Max Verstappen continued his remarkable run of form at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal during the Canadian Grand Prix. The Dutchman showcased exceptional skills that have made him a formidable force on track this season. His triumph not only strengthened his position as a frontrunner for this year’s World Championship title but also marked a historic milestone for Red Bull Racing – their 100th grand prix victory.
During an interview with Austrian OE24 following the race, Marko expressed delight over reaching such a momentous achievement while highlighting its significance before delving into explaining Perez’s struggles relative to Verstappen.
Perez Unmatched by His Teammate
While Max Verstappen basked in glory after clinching victory yet again, it was evident that Sergio Perez faced difficulties throughout the weekend at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. After failing to progress beyond Q2 during Saturday’s qualifying session, resulting in starting from P12 on race day itself; Perez ultimately finished sixth.
This underwhelming performance prompted questions about why there was such a marked difference in speed and performance between the two teammates who share the same RB19 car. In response to this query, Marko offered a straightforward explanation.
The Max Factor
Helmut Marko attributed Sergio Perez's slower pace to the sheer brilliance of his teammate, Max Verstappen. The team advisor acknowledged that Verstappen is currently at the top of his game and driving an exceptional car – factors that contribute significantly to his unrivaled dominance on track.
As per Marko's assessment, only two other Formula 1 drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, possess comparable skill levels necessary to match Verstappen’s remarkable talent behind the wheel of even Red Bull Racing's highly competitive RB19 car. Furthermore, it is worth noting that among these three formidable contenders for Formula 1 greatness, Verstappen stands out as a standout performer.
The Best Car
It is crucial to recognize that one of the key elements differentiating drivers' performances lies with the machinery they pilot on each race weekend. In this case specifically highlighted by Marko himself - Max enjoys being in the best car on the grid.
However, despite having access to an exceptional machine like Red Bull Racing’s RB19; Perez has still struggled notably when compared directly against powerhouses like Alonso or Hamilton as well. This further underscores just how extraordinary Verstappen’s performances have been throughout this season.
Sergio Perez possesses undeniable skill behind the wheel; demonstrated by his performances in previous seasons with different teams across Formula 1 paddock. He has proven himself capable of competing at high levels - securing victories and podium finishes along the way.
As he continues acclimatizing amidst such change within Red Bull Racing itself; fans eagerly await seeing him harnessing those attributes alongside Verstappen.
