F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Critical Marko explains why Mercedes voted for 2019 rule change

Red Bull motorsport boss Helmut Marko voiced once again a critical opinion of Mercedes, explaining the reasons behind the German outfit's recent vote in favour of F1's 2019 rule changes.

Two weeks ago, the F1 Commission passed a series of rule changes for next season, centered around the front and rear wings, in a bid to promote closer racing and help overtaking.

Red Bull's Christian Horner, who was in the camp of those who opposed the changes, labeled the aero modifications as "rushed and immature", while Marko believes Mercedes only cast a favourable because it hopes the rule changes will penalize its Red Bull rival.

"Mercedes wanted the new rules because they're at the end with their aerodynamic concept. They want to start from scratch because it hurts us," he said.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, two teams - Mercedes and Force India - only submitted their electronic 'yes' vote 15 minutes before the deadline.

"Actually we were 60 against it and 40 for it," said team boss Toto Wolff.

"Then we looked at the concept and saw that it made sense. You can't always veto," he added, contradicting Marko's assumptions.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Leclerc blames Monaco GP crash on major brake failure

Charles Leclerc says his late retirement from a podium finish in Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix…

10 minutes ago

Monaco GP: Antonelli dominates chaotic, penalty-filled race!

Kimi Antonelli survived a dramatic late twist to the Monaco Grand Prix to claim a…

2 hours ago

2026 Monaco Grand Prix - Race results

Full race results from the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo, round 6 of the…

2 hours ago

Monaco GP: The pre-race atmosphere in pictures

A "packed grid" takes on a whole new meaning in Monte Carlo, where celebrities and…

4 hours ago

As brave as they came: Rodriguez's winning rush at Spa

Pedro Rodriguez was as brave as they come, and the small Mexican driver proved it…

5 hours ago

Wolff: Antonelli age and ‘nothing to lose’ mindset making life 'easier'

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes that Kimi Antonelli’s sensational rise to prominence in F1 is…

6 hours ago