Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton Criticises Red Bull Chief Over Recent Remarks About Sergio Perez

• Formula 1 heads to Mexico for race 19 of the 2023 Calendar
• Red Bull Sergio Perez comes into the race on the back of criticism from his team boss
• Lewis Hamilton made clear his thoughts on the recent critics meted out to Perez

Since Sergio Perez's previous victory at the Azerbaijan Circuit, his 2023 season has been rather lacklustre. The Mexican driver has encountered difficulties after finishing second to his teammate, Max Verstappen, at the Miami Grand Prix, struggling to replicate his strong results in the season's early stages.

Perez's challenges in delivering consistent performances in the exceptional RB19 car have been exacerbated by criticism from the team's director, Helmut Marko, who has hinted at the possibility of replacing the Mexican driver before his contract expires in 2024.

Marko's criticism of Perez has not always been fair, and there were instances where he drew parallels between the driver's inconsistencies and his race and cultural background, as reported by ESPN.

Comparing Harry Maguire's stats to Man United teammates after 'ridiculously high' win claims

Football

In a recent interview leading up to the Mexico City Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton came to the defence of Sergio Perez and subtly took a swipe at Marko.

Hamilton throws shade at Marko

Hamilton, speaking to Fox Sports Mexico via Fastest Pitstop, responded to questions about the challenges faced by his closest rival, saying,

"I don't think his team have been massively supportive. I wouldn't say 'the team', because there's a lot of members in a team.

But there has been one particular spokesperson that has not been really great in helping psychologically."

"If I heard Toto [Wolff] talking negatively about me on the weekends, it would be very tough."

Hamilton's comments, which have generated significant interest among fans of the sport, were clearly directed at Marko. Despite Marko's recent efforts to handle discussions about Perez with diplomacy, it's evident that there is an underlying dissatisfaction with the Mexican driver.

Barcelona defender praises Real Madrid midfielder for stellar La Liga start

Football

Heading into the upcoming Grand Prix, Perez holds a 39-point advantage over Hamilton, and the optimistic Mexican driver aims to extend his lead and secure second place in the championship.

Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix Preview

In a previous report, Sports Brief touched on key details and previews ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Despite Red Bull and Verstappen already having secured a third successive crown this year, there's still much at stake for the rest of the field, including Sergio Perez, who is facing an ultimatum to save his 2024 seat, as reported by Brazilian outlet Geglobo.

Lewis Hamilton will also fancy an outsider's chance to secure his first race victory since Jeddah 2021.