RED BULL motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, wanted to create a “corona camp” to deliberately infect the team’s drivers with COVID-19.
The bonkers idea would see Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Alex Albon, along with AlphaTauri drivers, Daniil Kvyat and Pierre Gasly, plus some reserve drivers, exposed to the virus.
Helmut Marko thought it might be a good idea to deliberately catch coronavirusCredit: PA:Press Association
Outspoken Marko is chums with billionaire Red Bull owner, Dietrich Mateschitz, and is his go-to man when it comes to motor racing.
Marko believed that by seeing his drivers all test positive for the coronavirus, they would build up an immunity to the disease.
He said: “We have four Formula One drivers and eight or ten juniors.
“The idea was to organise a camp where we could bridge this – mentally and physically – somewhat dead time.
“And that would be the ideal time for the infection to come. These are all strong young men in really good health.
“That way they would be prepared whenever the action starts, and you can be ready for what will probably be a very tough championship once it starts.”
‘NOT WELL RECEIVED’
The astonishing claim comes as numbers of victims of the disease continues to rocket across Europe.
Unsurprisingly, the F1 team, Red Bull Racing, didn’t buy in to the Austrian’s plan and his idea for the controversial camp was quickly rejected.
He added: “Let’s put it this way, it has not been well received.”
Instead of his herd immunity plan, Red Bull’s drivers are remaining at their homes in Monaco.
Verstappen is using the time for virtual racing to stay sharp, with F1 still saying they want to complete between 15 and 18 races this year.
Marko said: “Max does sim racing and sometimes competes in several races per day. I think he drives more races than in a real season.
“At the same time they all have their own physio, which they use for fitness exercises. That’s ideal for working out now.
“If there is a racing season with 15 to 18 races, it will be very, very tough.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
“There is no possibility to improve your fitness during the season. So it’s actually ideal to use this time now.”
Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing, who are based in Milton Keynes, have donated their PPE equipment to the NHS Trust.
The team supplied masks, gloves and aprons while they are working as part of “Project Pitlane” with other F1 teams to develop ventilators for the NHS.
CORONAVIRUS CRISIS – BE IN THE KNOW
Get the latest coronavirus news, facts and figures from around the world – plus essential advice for you and your family.
To receive our Covid-19 newsletter in your inbox every tea time, sign up here.
To follow us on Facebook, simply ‘Like’ our Coronavirus page.
Max Verstappen’s tackles virtual lap of Australian Grand Prix
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
