Marko blasts 'pathetic' Norris behaviour

Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko has been critical of Lando Norris' comments via team radio during the Austrian Grand Prix.

The McLaren driver clashed with Max Verstappen in the closing stages of the race at the Red Bull Ring, with the lap 64 of 71 incident being judged to be the Dutchman's fault.

Norris sent into retirement after the two collided at Turn 3 whilst battling for the lead. Whilst the three-time drivers' champion was able to survive, he was slapped with a 10-second time penalty - something that had no impact on his fifth-place finish.

However, Verstappen ally Marko placed the blame at the door of the British driver, admonishing the 24-year-old's behaviour.

"It was pathetic how Norris behaved on the radio," the Austrian told OE24. "But these things happen and I would write it off as a racing accident, although more likely Norris went over his limits."

When asked if he felt the whole episode was due to a lack of experience of the McLaren driver's part, Marko replied: "Definitely."

Norris' apology appeal 'doesn't really help'

Post-race, Norris said he would lose respect for Verstappen - who he is friends with off the track - if the Red Bull driver did not apologise for the incident.

Meanwhile, the Dutchman confirmed he would speak to Norris in order the clear the air ahead of this weekend's British Grand Prix.

To Marko, though, the McLaren driver's remarks were not conducive to re-establishing the peace, saying: "Norris' comment that Max should apologise doesn't really help. But they will meet for a chat."

The 81-year-old also confirmed that the pair did not travel home together from the grand prix, as they usually do.

"No, normally they fly together, but this time they traveled separately. So Max [Verstappen] had a quiet return flight," he added.