Marko asserts Perez receiving ‘no criticism’ at Red Bull

Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko has stated that there is “no criticism” being directed at Sergio Perez from within the squad.

Perez's difficult run of form has left his future at the team in question despite having a contract in place until the end of next year.

The Mexican driver commenced the year in strong fashion as he won two out of the opening four races.

However, team-mate Max Verstappen has dominated him ever since and managed to seal his third World Championship last weekend in Qatar.

Perez's disappointing form this year includes eight non-Q3 appearances as well as scoring just five points in the last three races.

But Marko has stated that Red Bull is not criticising Perez despite his lacklustre performances this year.

“Checo just has to do the best he can without looking at Verstappen,” Marko told OE24.

“We are trying to help him do that. You see, there is no criticism from the team, only help. Maybe it will work.”

Marko predicts further problems

Next up on the F1 schedule are the United States and Mexico City Grands Prix, the latter of which is Perez's home race.

The upcoming event in the USA will also be another F1 Sprint weekend, which Marko has predicted will not help Perez pull himself out of his poor form.

“That doesn't make it any easier for him,” he said, referring to his upcoming home race.

“In addition, there is now a sprint race in the USA - exactly what he doesn't need at the moment.

“That makes it even more difficult for him because he always needs time to get up to speed. I hope that Austin will be halfway right, then it will work again in Mexico.”