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Marko: 'There are no limits to our expectations of Verstappen'
Max Verstappen can secure his third world title as early as the sprint race this coming weekend. In doing so, he would equal Michael Schumacher by becoming world champion with six Formula 1 races to go. Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko realises this all too well in his preview of the Qatar Grand Prix.
Marko has high hopes for GP Qatar
Looking ahead, Marko points out the main difference from the previous edition of the 2021 F1 race in Qatar. "The temperatures are so incredibly high this year, it's still 37 degrees at night. But on the simulator, it looked very good," he outlined Red Bull's expectations in conversation with Kronen Zeitung.
He continued: "Max has not won here yet. This time, the decision in the drivers' championship may already fall in the sprint race. Sixth place is enough. He clearly wants it to happen on Saturday, and those chances are very high, especially as sixth place is enough even if Sergio Perez wins."
Marko sees Hamilton approaching Perez
Marko adds that Perez's strength, moreover, is not in qualifying. "Qualifying is his handicap. I hope he scores points. We need to defend second place in the world championship, but unfortunately, Lewis Hamilton is getting closer."
Verstappen, who is heading for his third world title in a row, continues to surprise the 80-year-old Austrian the longer he has been with the team. "As a person, he has developed tremendously. He only celebrated his 26th birthday on Saturday and has a clear personality. As a driver, he surprises us time and again with qualifying laps you wouldn't think possible. There are no limits to our expectations, and the future looks bright," Marko said.
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