Lewis Hamilton has no advantage over Max Verstappen: Helmut Marko

Helmut Marko is no longer afraid of Lewis Hamilton; he believes Max Verstappen has surpassed the champion in terms of experience as well.

Lewis Hamilton has no advantage over Max Verstappen: Helmut Marko

Helmut Marko and Lewis Hamilton. Images via Marco & The Telegraph

Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s adviser, put his money on Max Verstappen. He saw the Dutchman’s talent and brought him into the team. It is no secret that Verstappen is Red Bull’s golden boy. The 2023 season is his ninth year in Formula One. This has been quite a journey for Marko and Verstappen.

The Austrian is quite aggressive with his words when it comes to defending his team. He has often spoken ill of Lewis Hamilton throughout the years. The other drivers have also been a victim of his vocal attacks. However, things are different when it comes to Verstappen. It is no doubt that Marko is fond of the Red Bull driver. 

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Helmut Marko has often stated that no one else can do what Max Verstappen does. In an interview with De Telegraaf, Marko mentioned, “Lewis Hamilton might have had an advantage earlier because of his experience, but Max is now at the top on that part too.” Marko refers to Hamilton’s experience over the years that gave him an advantage while racing younger drivers.

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Helmut Marko was once worried Max Verstappen would leave the team

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Max Verstappen & Helmut Marko. Image via Twitter

Lewis Hamilton, with his talent, experience, and good package, was tough to beat, but now things have changed. Mercedes are not where they want to be. Helmut Marko believes this gives Red Bull an advantage, as Hamilton is out of the picture for now. He further stated that Verstappen has more to offer.

Marko explained that the Dutchman was now at the peak of his career. “Last year Max took another step, I think. That he is very fast, we all already knew. But in terms of managing his tyres, he got a lot better.” Helmut Marko also revealed that there was a moment when he thought Verstappen would leave the team. He stated, “That was when we were in the engine situation with Renault. I knew we had to do something then. We have always been open towards Max. We told him about the situation, about the problems and the possibilities.” Well, the team has sorted this issue. 

Marko mentioned that Verstappen is the most important part of Red Bull and is included in all the conversations. They consulted him when the team wanted to engage with Honda, the same happened with Porsche and Ford. Marko is not worried anymore, he believes it is Red Bull’s era, and Max Verstappen will bring home championships. 

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