Max Verstappen’s accident at the Dutch Formula 1 GP scared Helmut Marko, mainly because of the risk created when the car was sideways on the track. The former Red Bull Racing consultant admitted concern about the possibility of another driver hitting the Dutchman’s car.
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Verstappen lost control alone at the final corner of the first lap and crashed hard into the barrier, immediately ending his participation in front of the Dutch fans. According to Marko, the most delicate moment came right after the impact, when the car remained in a dangerous position for the other competitors.
Speaking in an interview with OE24, Marko explained that he was relieved to see from Verstappen’s head movements that the four-time world champion was conscious and stable. The confirmation came shortly after via radio, when the driver reported that he was fine.
“I was already scared when the car stopped sideways. Thank God there was a distance to the rest of the pack, and fortunately, (Liam) Lawson reacted very well. If someone hits a stationary car on the track, it can be really dangerous,” said Marko.
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The Austrian also highlighted Lawson’s reaction, who managed to respond quickly to the situation. For Marko, the episode reinforces how seemingly unexpected incidents can quickly turn into risky situations.
“I immediately saw from the head movement that Max was stable. Then came his ‘I’m fine’ and ‘sorry!’. How quickly something can happen was seen with (Isack) Hadjar. He fractured his wrist while practicing kickboxing with a coach,” Marko concluded.
