In a recent article for SPEEDWEEK.com, Helmut Marko commented on the start of the season of Max Verstappen and all of Red Bull. “Five weekends, five different tracks, five pole positions for Verstappen, four victories. At this point we can say that our car is fast on any type of circuit. However, the fact that tire wear was unusually high in Melbourne makes it clear that the various types of asphalt can make a difference.".
After this brief analysis of the recent past, Marko focuses on the near future. “Circuits like Miami or Monaco will be an opportunity for our rivals, especially in qualifying. It won't be easy for us to start in pole position".
So who will be able to benefit from it? Not even Marko can know. “Behind Red Bull there is never a second constant force. In China we were surprised to see Norris second. We expected a faster Ferrari, but they didn't manage to get close to the podium either in qualifying or in the race.".
The Red Bull consultant also has good words for both of his drivers. "Verstappen is constantly improving. He wasn't a given after last season. This can also be seen when he decides the set-up of the car. There is great harmony between him and his race engineer”.
“Max is no longer impatient. Every weekend, he calmly focuses on two objectives: putting the car on pole position if possible, but above all focusing attention on the race. This combination, together with excellent tire management, it's what makes him unbeatable at the moment".
"I'm also very happy with Perez. At the start of the season he has improved compared to last year. He no longer comes to every weekend trying to beat Max at any cost. In 2023, she was trying to get closer to him by choosing a different setup; now she has given up on it and is doing much better, especially in qualifying”.
“Leaving aside Red Bull, among the best drivers this year is Norris, who has a greater gap on Piastri than last year – continues Marko – The Sainz he's impressing me: he's always been ahead of Leclerc except in China. And then, of course, Alonso: never gives up".
