Former Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has hit back at recent criticism aimed at the Formula 1 giants by its former driver Sergio Perez.
The Mexican was unceremoniously axed by the Milton Keynes-based squad at the conclusion of the 2024 season, in which he struggled in a regressive RB20.
Perez had initially been confirmed to continue for 2025, but with results floundering and unable to sufficiently keep up with Max Verstappen, the 36-year-old was duly shown the door.
The lateness of the decision left Perez without options for 2025, and spent much of it keeping a low profile.
However, since being announced as one of the two drivers spearheading the new Cadillac team for 2026, the six-time Grand Prix-winner has, along with his preparations for his eagerly-anticipated comeback, had taken time to launch some spicy asides at his former employers.
A recent podcast appearance saw Perez make a myriad of accusations about the team, including a belief that it was “a problem” whenever he proved himself faster than Verstappen, and an apparent psychologist appointment made by team early in his time there, the hefty bill Marko apparently paid for.
Speaking to ORF, Marko responded to Perez’s claims by countering his career was “made” with Red Bull.
“It is somewhat surprising, because we should not forget that Checo Pérez did not have a contract,” he said. “He was fired from the racing team he practically kept alive.
“I don’t know exactly how many Grand Prix races he won, but especially in 2022 he was in the race for the world championship for a while.
“That he eventually stopped performing had several reasons, but overall I think Checo made his career with us.”
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