P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko has Sergio Perez in his crosshairs again as he concedes the reigning constructors’ champions cannot match the strength of the McLaren driver line-up.
Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko believes that currently the McLaren duo of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri is stronger than the Red Bull driver line-up. Despite challenges with the RB20, Max Verstappen has been competitive and maintained his lead in the drivers’ championship. With six rounds left in the F1 season, Verstappen holds a 52-point lead over Norris, who faces a tough task to win his first title with the impressive McLaren MCL38.
Marko mentioned that McLaren is fast on every track and underlined that their drivers are stronger than Red Bull’s. Despite criticism towards Sergio Perez, Marko acknowledged the performance difference between Red Bull and McLaren, predicting McLaren will keep their lead in the constructors’ standings. With improvements in the RB20 seen at the Singapore Grand Prix, Red Bull remains hopeful for a stronger finish to the season.
Marko expressed optimism for the upcoming races, stating that the schedule would suit the RB20 better. He believes there could be a fierce competition at the front, with the possibility of Mercedes and Ferrari challenging McLaren and Red Bull. Marko emphasized the “Max factor” and how Verstappen could excel in a closely contested battle for the championship.
