Marko: Verstappen is ready for the title

If the management of Max Verstappen was the subject of criticism and heated discussions in the paddock of the F1 last year, it is clear that the pilot Red Bull was able to place himself among the best performers of the 2016 season, notably winning his first victory at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona for his debut in the Red Bull's first team.

Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull advisor and head of the young driver program, believes that his protégé is now in a position to challenge for the title.

“Max is ready. We think he is more experienced. He will now compete in his 3rd season in F1, recalled the Austrian on Dutch TV. His risk-taking will be an advantage because others tell themselves that they should never try something stupid when Max is trying to overtake. He will therefore have fewer risks to take. He only had one accident, in Monte-Carlo. In fact, he had three accidents that weekend, but he remained in control in all the other races. »

Dr. Helmut Marko thus seems to disagree with Jos Verstappen, the father of the Red Bull driver, who thinks that the objective of the coronation is still premature.

“This is just my opinion, but I think it takes another year. I do not believe that the gap with Mercedes will be weaker”, admitted the former Arrows driver on Ziggo Sport.