“That’s Settled”: Sergio Perez Gets Painful Kick in the Gut As Max Verstappen Wins Over Red Bull Civil War

Sergio Perez has recently been subjected to a painful shocker in his battle for supremacy in Red Bull. The Austrian team’s taskmaster Helmut Marko’s recent statement was a kick in the gut as he fends off Mexican’s chances against Max Verstappen.

The battle for supremacy began this year as the 33-year-old looked more composed and comfortable with the RB-19 this season as compared to his earlier two seasons.

However, the main contention for the dominion began from last year’s Brazilian Grand Prix when the Dutchman denied letting Checo through to help him with the P2 position in the standings.

From there on, till this year, Perez has absolutely been clinical until the Monaco GP. The Red Bull duo was at par in most races, with Verstappen and Perez at almost identical points. However, Marko believes Verstappen has no danger in the form of Perez.

Helmut Marko snubs that Max Verstappen had a Sergio Perez Threat

From the beginning of the year, there have been reports of Verstappen and Perez being the only title contenders this season. This might be an excellent opportunity for Red Bull to pick up 1-2 in the driver’s standings.

However, this has become a serious blow after Fernando Alonso’s insurgence and as he closed down on the Mexican’s P2 points. With Perez at the backfoot, Marko revealed his verdict on his challenge against Verstappen.

Five out of five ✅ Our perfect start continues 🏆 pic.twitter.com/0lL2YAqkQp

— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) May 7, 2023

Speaking about it in a report published by Sport 24, the 80-year-old veteran said when asked if he sees Perez as a threat to the two-time world champion, “That’s settled.‘”

“But in truth, Max never saw any danger in Perez,” admitted the senior advisor of Red Bull Racing. Admittedly, the defending champion always had an extra edge in his performances and, as a result, enjoyed ‘favoritism’ on the team.

Can Perez get the better of the second driver curse?

The second seat in Red Bull next to Verstappen is believed to be cursed. Drivers in recent times have not only failed against the Dutchman but also couldn’t keep their seats.

The list goes on from Daniel Ricciardo to Pierre Gasly to Alex Albon and now Sergio Perez. However, the 33-year-old driver is poised to be in a better position than his predecessors.

Sergio Perez was the only driver who is believed to have threatened Max Verstappen initially. However, with 39 points lead now after six races and form on his side, the two-time world champion is pulling away with hardly a chance for Perez to fight back.