Marko looks ahead to Austria: 'If that problem persists, it could be difficult for us'

F1 News

Marko looks ahead to GP Austria
26 June at 10:00
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  • Tygo Bekkema

Max Verstappen was once again the best at the Barcelona Grand Prix last weekend. The Dutchman held on to two seconds over his main rival, Lando Norris, at the finish line after an exciting tactical battle. Helmut Marko looked back on the race in Catalonia in his column on Speedweek and he naturally had words of praise for Verstappen.

"In Spain, Verstappen did not have the fastest car and did not start from pole position, but he still managed to win. He did so thanks to the incredible overtaking move on George Russell. He was able to drive up to the front and proved once again what kind of feeling he has in the car and he read the race very well. That was the basis of the victory," Marko opened his account.

Stand for Lando Norris

The Red Bull Racing team advisor does, however, address Lando Norris somewhat admonishingly, the Austrian was unapologetic about the manoeuvre at the start of the race. "Max once again made the difference, he took victory with a car that was not the fastest. He started on old tyres, while Lando had new tyres underneath. Then the latter pushed Max onto the grass with an action that was more than on the edge."

Marko speaks of a "perfectly run race". But he does argue that the margins are very small. "I think if Norris had stayed ahead of us at the start, we wouldn't have won the race. The strategy was perfect. Our goal was to stay in front and not end up in traffic too much, which worked out well."

Marko foresees challenge in Austria

Finally, the octogenarian Austrian looks ahead to the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix. Marko foresees a tough weekend, but he once again hopes for a piece of art from Verstappen. "A challenge awaits us in Spielberg. Max always has a chance to win, but it is a sprint weekend. That means we only have one practice session to tune the car. Lately, however, we need all three sessions to balance the car. If that problem persists, then it could be difficult," Marko said.