Marko reacts to Perez's exit: 'We will make a decision in Abu Dhabi'

Marko: 'In Abu Dhabi we will make a decision'

Verstappen had a couple of difficult practice sessions, but still managed to qualify ahead of title rival Lando Norris. Due to a modified rear wing, the Red Bull was not fast enough on the straight. "We had some problems here and there," Marko told Viaplay. "During Sector 3 and on the straights we lost about three tenths because we have a smaller wing than needed. In the process we had problems with grip, but we recovered well. Max only lost two or three tenths on his fastest lap. In the end it went better than expected after the sessions on Friday," the Austrian added.

Marko was not satisfied with Perez. For the sixth time this season, the Mexican failed to get through Q1, much to the Red Bull adviser's displeasure. In contrast, Marko did admit that Perez was driving with a different set-up than Verstappen, but at the same time, he said that Perez was simply not fast enough. "Yes, he was simply not fast enough. And maybe we should have used two sets of tyres, that would have helped, but we thought he could do that. Now he is 16th."

The pressure is mounting on Perez. Asked whether the Mexican could keep his seat for 2025, Marko responded clearly: "After Abu Dhabi we will go through all the possibilities and then we will make a decision. I am not saying there is a risk. I am saying we will look at all possibilities and then make a decision."

This article has been created in collaboration with Matt Gretton