Max Verstappen "worlds faster than anyone else" according to Marko
It was certainly an impressive drive from Max Verstappen in Germany, but Helmut Marko has taken the praise to another level. He believes the Red Bull driver "was worlds faster than anyone else".
Verstappen held his nerve when those around him fell during treacherous conditions at the German Grand Prix as he won the race, followed by Sebastian Vettel and Daniil Kvyat. The Dutchman overcame a difficult start as well as spinning out to claim his second win in three races and move within 22 points of Valtteri Bottas, who is second in the Drivers' Championship.
Verstappen's recovery was so good, according to Marko it was "Senna-style" and the Austrian believes he was head and shoulders above the rest of the field last weekend.
"Max drove sensationally again," Marko told Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.
"When he had a clear track, he was worlds faster than anyone else.
"Also, our pit stops were optimal, we just made a mistake when we pulled out the medium tyres on the second stop, but that was understandable given the hectic rush."
At the start of the season, Marko targeted five race wins. At the time it seemed unrealistic but he now believes Max is in the World Championship battle.
"I would not rule it out," he added.