In a jaw-dropping statement that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, Helmut Marko, the outspoken Red Bull advisor, has controversially labeled the team’s 2024 RB20 car as a “b*tch,” adding fuel to the ongoing debate over its drivability. According to Marko, this feisty machine, while dominating the grid, seems to have only one master: reigning world champion Max Verstappen.

The Red Bull RB20, heralded for its blistering speed and cutting-edge aerodynamics, has been a force to reckon with this season. With Verstappen at the helm, the car has continued to crush its rivals, leading the championship with an intimidating points gap. However, Marko’s recent comments suggest that the car’s true potential might be restricted to just one driver—a claim that has ignited fierce discussions among fans and analysts alike.

In a recent interview, Marko didn’t mince words when describing the RB20’s performance. “This car is a b*tch, but it’s Max’s b*tch,” he declared, suggesting that Verstappen’s unparalleled skill set is the key to unlocking the car’s full capabilities. “It’s clear that Max is the only one who can tame it. The car demands a certain driving style, one that only Max seems to understand. The others? They struggle.”

Marko’s statement, though provocative, highlights a growing narrative within the team—that the RB20’s aggressive characteristics may be too much for anyone but Verstappen to handle. While Sergio Pérez, Verstappen’s teammate, has shown flashes of brilliance, his performances have been inconsistent, raising questions about whether the car is truly tailored for both drivers or solely for its lead star.

The suggestion that the RB20 is custom-built for Verstappen raises both tactical advantages and potential pitfalls for Red Bull Racing. On one hand, Verstappen’s dominance has given the team a significant edge, ensuring a near-certain shot at both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships. On the other, the apparent disparity between Verstappen’s and Pérez’s results has sparked concerns about the team’s long-term strategy. Is Red Bull too reliant on Verstappen? Could this imbalance affect their ability to adapt in a rapidly changing F1 landscape?

Furthermore, the intense focus on Verstappen might affect team morale and harmony. Pérez, who has been a strong second driver for Red Bull, might feel overshadowed or even undervalued, potentially leading to friction within the camp. The challenge for Red Bull now lies in balancing the car’s performance to suit both drivers while maintaining their competitive edge.

Marko’s remarks have ignited a firestorm on social media, with fans and pundits offering a mix of praise and criticism. Some view his comments as an acknowledgment of Verstappen’s exceptional talent, while others argue that the statement undermines the team’s unity and the potential of Pérez. “Max is amazing, but to call the car a b*tch? That’s harsh,” one fan tweeted, echoing a sentiment shared by many.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Red Bull manages this unique situation. Will they continue to fine-tune the RB20 to Verstappen’s liking, or will they work to create a more balanced setup for both drivers? One thing is certain: Helmut Marko’s candid words have added another layer of intrigue to an already thrilling F1 season.