Helmut Marko is a man of many words. More often than not, these words catch the ire of F1 fans. The Austrian has arguably spoken harshly on many occasions within the paddock. His recent comments about Sergio Perez and his performance might have fallen into the same bucket.

Checo qualified 3rd in yesterday’s Qualifying session. But come race day, in light of the grid penalties, the Mexican shall start from the front row. However, he was almost a second behind his teammate and championship leader Max Verstappen. When asked about his performance, Marko had a few not-so-good things to say.

While speaking to the media Marko commented that Perez‘s difficulties are like the “typical ups and downs of a South American.” (translated via Google Translate).

This would probably not go down well with fans and Checo as well. Marko, however, went on to explain how Checo made a mistake in Q3 that led to that delta. It is to be seen how Perez responds to these comments by Marko.

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This isn’t the first time that Helmut Marko has spoken some questionable words about Perez whilst referring to his nationality.

Helmut Marko aims pointed dig at Sergio Perez’s nationality

While at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Helmut Marko was asked about Perez’s concerns about safety. There, the Red Bull advisor remarked in a distasteful manner about how the situation in Mexico is no better.

When asked about the concern shown by Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, who hails from Mexico, the Austrian had this to say to Sky Germany, “But if you live Mexico City it’s not much safer there.”

This irked a lot of Formula 1 fans. Similarly, fans have shown displeasure towards Marko’s comments from time to time.

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Will Sergio Perez be able to put this minor setback on the back burner and challenge for the win at the Spa Francorchamps circuit today? Or will we see a resurgent drive from either Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc?