Formula 1 News: Marko versus Brown 'war of words' rumbles on

(GMM) Red Bull versus McLaren is no longer just a wheel-to-wheel and technical battle – it’s descended into an ongoing war of words between Dr. Helmut Marko and Zak Brown.

Prior to the US GP weekend, Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko pointed out what he regards as Lando Norris’ mental weaknesses, culminating in bad race starts and pre-race nerves and rituals.

Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Consultant Dr Helmut Marko and Ahmet Mercan, Global Head of Motorsports at Red Bull walk in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of United States at Circuit of The Americas on October 18, 2024 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool

McLaren CEO Zak Brown snapped back in the FIA press conference, accusing 81-year-old Marko of setting back progress that is being made in F1 about mental health awareness.

“I thought it was below the belt,” Brown also told Sky Deutschland on Saturday.

“But it’s pointless to talk to him about it. It is not the first time he has made comments like that and it will certainly not be the last.”

Marko was asked about Brown’s reaction, and told motorsport-magazin.com that he was just giving his opinion. “I was simply asked who would be world champion,” said the Austrian.

“I said Max (Verstappen) would be champion because he is mentally much stronger and because he is the fastest driver. “And if you look at how often Max wins positions or keeps his position at the start, and how Norris does it, I think everything is clear.

“If it was misinterpreted, then I’m sorry,” Marko added.

Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing, is interviewed

Norris was also asked about the needle between Brown and Marko, insisting: “I really don’t mind if people say what they want to say about me, good or bad.

“Everyone is trying to play their role, whether they are team bosses, drivers or managers. Everyone is trying to irritate everyone else with their little quips and comments,” added the McLaren driver.

Another comment interpreted by some as a psychological barb was when Verstappen insisted that, if he was in Oscar Piastri’s shoes, he would refuse to accept his new role as ‘number 2’ to teammate Norris.

When asked about that, the young Australian sounded unfazed.

“I think Max is a pretty honest guy,” said Piastri. “He says what he thinks. We all know that.

“But I don’t see it as a number 1, number 2. If I perform well, and I deserve it, I won’t give everything up for Lando. I appreciate his (Verstappen’s) support, but it’s not really how I see it.”