Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko has publicly acknowledged responsibility for the controversy surrounding Max Verstappen’s new signing and the subsequent termination of Sergio Perez’s contract. In a surprising admission, Marko has accepted the criticism that has followed the team’s decision to make bold moves regarding its driver lineup, stirring debate within the Formula 1 community.

In an interview, Marko stated, “It’s my fault,” when asked about the recent decision to make changes that brought Verstappen under renewed scrutiny and led to Perez’s departure. “I made the call to support Max’s future with a significant new deal, but in doing so, we had to make some tough decisions, including Sergio’s departure. It’s not easy, and I understand the criticism.”

Sergio Perez, who joined Red Bull in 2021 and played a crucial role in supporting Verstappen’s two championship-winning campaigns, was seen as an integral part of the team. Despite showing strong performances in many races, Perez’s termination has drawn backlash from fans who believe he deserved more time and recognition for his contributions.

Marko’s regretful tone suggests that the decision to part ways with Perez wasn’t easy. “Letting Sergio go was one of the hardest decisions. He has been an incredible asset to Red Bull, and there are moments when I question if it was the right choice. He helped Max secure those championships, and I regret that it had to come to this.”

Perez’s departure has sparked intense speculation about his future in Formula 1, with rumors linking him to potential seats with other top teams. His departure has left a noticeable gap in Red Bull’s lineup, as fans question whether Verstappen’s dominance will be enough to carry the team without Perez’s support.

Verstappen’s new signing, while locking in his long-term future with the team, has raised questions about Red Bull’s approach to building a balanced driver lineup. Marko’s acknowledgment of the potential missteps in terminating Perez’s contract shows the weight of the decision, particularly as Red Bull faces heightened competition from rival teams.

As Red Bull prepares for the next season, the pressure is mounting on Verstappen and the team to deliver consistent results. Marko’s admission of regret over the handling of Perez’s termination has added an extra layer of complexity to the team’s strategy, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this evolving story.