Marko and Montoya hit back at Perez's Red Bull criticism

Helmut Marko and Juan Pablo Montoya have firmly rejected Sergio Perez's recent criticisms of Red Bull, countering that the team rescued his career rather than hindering it. Following Perez's claims that Red Bull is a "one-driver show" where beating Max Verstappen was treated as a problem, Marko reminded the media that the Mexican driver was unemployed when the team offered him a lifeline.

Why it matters:

The exchange exposes the raw nerves left exposed after Perez's turbulent exit following the 2024 season. While Perez attempts to reframe his Red Bull tenure as restrictive, the team's alumni and advisors are aggressively protecting the brand's image by emphasizing the career-defining success they provided him.

The details:

• Marko’s Rebuttal: In an interview with ORF, Marko highlighted that Perez "did not have a contract" and was "fired from the racing team he practically kept alive" before joining Red Bull. He argued that Perez "made his career" with the team, noting his 2022 title challenge before his form dipped.
• Legacy Argument: Marko’s tone was less about betrayal and more about bewilderment that Perez would criticize the outfit that gave him relevance and trophies.
• Montoya’s Agreement: Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya echoed these sentiments on his podcast, pointing out that five of Perez’s six Grand Prix wins came with Red Bull.
• Global Status: Montoya argued that Red Bull elevated Perez’s reputation globally, not just in Mexico. He contrasted Perez's standing in 2020 with how he is remembered now, stating that Red Bull fundamentally changed his image and legacy in the sport.

Looking ahead:

As Perez prepares for a new chapter with Cadillac, the war of words over his Red Bull legacy continues. While the driver seeks redemption, the Milton Keynes outfit remains focused on maintaining its narrative as the platform that launched his greatest successes.