Marko pleased with Red Bull drivers in Japan, but he leaves Verstappen out of consideration

Earlier, Marko reacted with frustration at Red Bull's correlation issues, as the on track performance did not match the data from the simulator. Despite this setback, he saw strengths in the three young Red Bull drivers, complimenting the New Zealander, Lawson, on his performance following his demotions from Red Bull.

"A very good day for Yuki and for all of our young drivers. Hadjar did well, and Lawson recovered," the Austrian said in conversation with Sky Sports F1, after the first two practice sessions.

Tsunoda is making his debut for Red Bull Racing this weekend. Marko was already asked whether Tsunoda is a serious candidate to retain the second Red Bull seat for the long-term future at the Austrian team. Marko answered: "He proved it today, yes."