Helmut Marko criticized the FIA for the technical directive that seeks to reduce porpoising on cars. Red Bull's consultant suggested it is a show of strength by Mercedes
Red Bull's consultant Helmut Marko also took a stand against the FIA's technical directive that seeks to control the issue of stand-offs. Before the Canadian GP, the Federation announced measures to limit the vertical oscillation of the cars and reduce the 'porpoising' effect, which was marked on the Mercedes car.
During the weekend in Montreal, Red Bull boss Christian Horner criticized the directive. Marko believes the FIA's measure is an imposition of power by rival Mercedes on the body. Over the weekend, leaders of the ten teams met to talk about the issue, and barbs have since appeared in the media, especially from Horner and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff,
"I don't think the FIA's decisions are correct. One team, Mercedes, has the biggest problems and needs to react in the middle of the season. There is a simple solution: lift the car, and then you don't suffer from the pitting, but you lose in speed. The fact is that people are reacting in this way and trying to put power over the FIA. It is a rash shot that has not been well thought out," Marko commented to the German version of broadcaster Sky Sports.
One of Mercedes' arguments in the dispute to reduce porpoising is the drivers' health. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton reported severe back pain after the Azerbaijan GP. Marko assures that Red Bull's drivers are in top physical condition.
"Our drivers are the best assets we have. We need to make sure they are in the best physical condition," the consultant concluded.