Helmut Marko admits Max Verstappen didn’t have the ‘speed’ during final Q3 run in Baku

Helmut Marko didn't hesitate to accept that Max Verstappen lost out on major speed over the Azerbaijan GP qualifying.

Helmut Marko admits Max Verstappen didn’t have the ‘speed’ during final Q3 run in Baku

Max Verstappen, Helmut Marko, and Christian Horner (Via: Imago)

Red Bull’s tough struggles have continued to pose multiple challenging situations for Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. The team is continuously running the risk of losing the championship lead to McLaren soon. Additionally, Verstappen only managed a P6 start for the Azerbaijan GP as Helmut Marko gave his opinions on the performance.

Helmut Marko believed that Red Bull improved a lot in terms of pace over the session. Regardless, Max Verstappen was disappointed with his first lap in the Q3 session. Marko revealed that the Dutchman lost six-tenths at the Turn 16 which made all the difference in his lap time which would’ve granted him a P2 start.

We improved a lot, although Max was disappointed with his first lap in Q3. He lost six tenths at Turn 16, which would have been enough for P2.
Helmut Marko told ServusTV
YouTube video

Verstappen ran multiple laps around the circuit during the Q3 session to get the best results possible. The Dutchman didn’t commit any mistakes during the second lap and the chassis performed well too. However, the 26-year-old didn’t have the speed anymore according to Marko which caused him to lose out on multiple positions.

And on the second lap there was nothing bad anywhere, but he didn't have the speed anymore.
Helmut Marko added

Helmut Marko claimed P6 start didn’t ‘look bad’ despite chances of being on t front row

Helmut Marko was glad that the Baku City Circuit allowed overtaking throughout the race as Max Verstappen would have to work hard to move up the pecking order. As a result, Marko believed that the P6 position wasn’t bad considering Lando Norris’ start from P17. Regardless, the 81-year-old pointed out that there was a chance of securing the front row for Verstappen.

But it was too grippy. The pace is in the car and thank god this is a circuit where you can overtake. It doesn't look bad, especially considering Lando Norris' starting position. But still, we could have been on the front row.
Helmut Marko noted
Adrian Newey, Max Verstappen and Helmut Marko (via IMAGO)
Adrian Newey, Max Verstappen and Helmut Marko (via IMAGO)

Red Bull will have to put up their best performances in the remaining eight races to defend the championship title. The top teams only have an eight-point difference as McLaren would continue to keep up with their performances. The end-of-the-season battle promises a tough fight between the top outfits.