F1 News: Helmut Marko Fires Snub At Lewis Hamilton As '21 Abu Dhabi Drama Continues

Marko supports Massa’s legal challenge against the 2008 F1 result, potentially influencing past and recent F1 controversies.

Helmut Marko has voiced support for Felipe Massa’s legal bid against F1 and the FIA concerning the 2008 championship. This move could potentially strip Lewis Hamilton of his first world title, which he clearly enjoys the idea of. This comes as Mercedes has revealed they're watching the Massa legal proceedings with the '21 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in mind. 

Key Takeaways

• Red Bull's Helmut Marko backs Felipe Massa's legal push to overturn the 2008 F1 world championship result.
• Marko hinted at a potential impact on other past races if Massa’s case is successful.
• Mercedes’ Toto Wolff indicates that the outcome of Massa’s case could influence decisions surrounding the controversial 2021 title defeat of Hamilton.

In a recent exchange with the Austrian publication Kronen Zeitung, Marko commented on the heart-wrenching moment during the 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix when Massa thought he clinched the title. 

“It was terrible to see Massa celebrating winning the title in Brazil for 20 seconds, and then suddenly it was all gone,” said Marko. 

He then went on to make a tongue-in-cheek remark about Hamilton: 

“I would like him to win the title – and Mr. Hamilton – for whom records are not so important – would then have one less.”

Massa's claim revolves around the controversial 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, where he believes Renault’s actions cost him the championship. The Brazilian driver narrowly missed the title to then-McLaren driver Hamilton by just one point.

Marko's commentary doesn't stop there. Known for his candid nature, Marko pondered about the wider implications of Massa’s lawsuit, suggesting that it could open the floodgates: 

“If there are new facts, the matter can be reopened,” he reflected, adding, “The only question is, where would we end up if we had to re-evaluate many other races where there have also been incidents?”

On the sidelines of the Singapore Grand Prix, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff shared his thoughts on Massa's ongoing legal action, mentioning that the team is keenly watching the situation, highlighting its potential significance. 

"It will certainly set a precedent for F1,” Wolff teased.