Max Verstappen had some harsh words to say against George Russell when they collided with each other on the first lap of the race. However, SkySports journalist Rachel Brookes claims it was more of a reaction to Sergio Perez’s win than just being angry with the Mercedes driver.
According to Brookes, Verstappen was more riled up than before. So, it wasn’t just the collision, but the fact that no driver likes his teammate winning triggered the Dutchman.
“Firstly, the incident with Max and George. His responses on Saturday, he was really riled up,” said Brookes in the SkySports podcast. “It was just not the incident with George. It’s because his teammate won the race and drivers hate that.”
Brookes further adds that Perez will give Verstappen a tough challenge, and the latter realizes that. Therefore, the current world champion is somewhere bothered by it.
Brewing threat to Max Verstappen
In the four races that have happened so far in the season, both Red Bull drivers share two wins each, and only six points separate the two drivers. So, a rivalry between the two drivers can develop if they remain neck to neck for a few more races.
Perez has been vocal about his championship challenge this year. The Mexican race driver realizes that this is the only chance in his career to aim for the title, as Red Bull is at the peak of its power, and he drives the best car on the grid. So, if not this, then there might be no other opportunity.
Helmut Marko on Sergio Perez:
“Don’t underestimate Sergio. He changed a lot since he came to us. He started working!”
“Before, he was a Mexican race driver who was enjoying life. He still does, but he does the necessary work.”
“He is the most successful driver from Mexico now,… pic.twitter.com/gS2G2EsdVv
— Fastest Pitstop (@FastestPitStop) May 4, 2023
After the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, he even confessed that he would rather sit home and be with kids instead of traveling across the world if he didn’t want to compete for the championship. So, the determination is there. Now Perez needs wins.
Red Bull has given their blessings
Over the years, F1 teams have been infamous for favoring one driver over the other. Michael Schumacher always got backing from Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton was the candidate to spearhead Mercedes’ campaign, and now clearly, Verstappen is the person to support.
However, Red Bull boss Christian Horner has been asked whether Perez will get a chance to give his title shot. In response, the Briton has assured that both drivers will get equal resources to fight.
If true, this year could turn out to be the biggest season of his career. It’s been years since teammates have fought intensely for the championship. So, it could give some interesting times ahead.
