F1 News
Horner defends Marko after Hadjar statements: "He's 82, he's old school"
Christian Horner has defended the "old school" Helmut Marko following his comments about Isack Hadjar after the Australian Grand Prix, while also pointing out the role that Red Bull Racing has played for many young talents in Formula 1.
After the young French-Algerian driver crashed his Racing Bulls car on the formation lap before the Grand Prix in Melbourne got underway, he was very emotional walking through the paddock after a disappointing debut in the pinnacle of motorsport. Marko branded Hadjar's reaction as 'a bit embarrassing', with the translation from German to English perhaps making the comment a bit harsher than it may have been. However, the advisors' words got a lot of reaction online for those comments.
"Look, Helmut's 82 years of age. He's old school. He's a guy who lost an eye and pulled over the car and just turned the engine off. He will always have his own opinion which he has the right to. Does everybody share that opinion? No. It was very sad to see him that upset. No doubt his team have got around him, But you forget how young they are. He’s 20 years of age, and he's got a bright future ahead of him. He'll be fine," Horner stated to Sky Sports.
Horner positive about Red Bull's opportunities
Still, questions were raised about whether there is still room for this way of doing things. For example, Alexander Albon was mentioned as a driver who is now thriving at Williams, and Carlos Sainz has also had a fine career after Red Bull. Marko's tough nature is famous and infamous, but according to Horner, it is precisely Red Bull Racing's strength.
"Drivers develop at different times. I mean, I got Alex that Williams seat in 2021. Different drivers, they've now got plenty of experience. But if you look at the other side, none of these drivers would have had the opportunity had it not been for Red Bull. Other organisations weren't taking the chance on Carlos Sainz, on Alex, on Pierre Gasly, on Liam Lawson or Yuki. It's been Red Bull that has been investing in its youth and giving this opportunity and platform. And of course, there's only so long you can give before you set them free, and if they're able to carve out a career, then that's great for them," concluded Horner.
This article was written in collaboration with Tim Kraaij
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