Perez's father backs Marko treatment of son: 'I love that'

Antonio Perez Garibay has backed Red Bull Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko as son Sergio's "best supporter" despite a number of controversies this season.

Perez Jr began the season in fine form with two wins from four races, as well as victory in the Azerbaijan Sprint, before his performances nose-dived after a crash in Monaco Grand Prix qualifying.

Despite the occasional flash of a revival, too many mistakes have hampered Perez as he tried to secure a comfortable second in the Drivers' standings.

The struggles have led to questions regarding his future with Red Bull, with his current contract due to expire at the end of next season but Perez Sr told ORF: "Checo will drive with Max in the same team for at least another ten years and in those ten years, Checo might win a world title.

"I think it's great that my son is competing against the best driver in the world, which is currently Max Verstappen."

Perez Sr on Marko: 'He is incredible'

Whilst Team Principal Christian Horner has continuously backed Perez in public, comments from Marko seen to only add pressure have been criticised throughout the year.

Tensions rose when the Austrian made a xenophobic slur against Mexicans and South Americans when assessing Perez's struggles, with Marko forced into an apology.

Despite the controversy, Perez Sr insisted: "Marko is the best... the best supporter Checo can have in the whole world.

"He is incredible! Helmut is a winner and he pushes Checo, I love that, I love Dr. Marko."