Marko full of praise: 'A talent you only find once in a decade'

Helmut Marko has given his opinion on current and former Red Bull drivers in an interview with the Red Bulletin. Some receive criticism from the Austrian, but for Max Verstappen, Marko has only praise.

"Max is definitely the fastest driver we have ever had. He is also slowly becoming the most complete driver. He is a talent you only see once in a decade. The total package of speed, attitude and confidence is unique. He even says unpleasant things clearly in interviews. He stands by what he says and does - truly a strong character", Marko writes in the edition for the Austrian Grand Prix.

High praise for Verstappen

"There is no one currently faster than him on a lap. Race intelligence was there from the start", the Red Bull advisor continues. Marko mentions the victory in Spain, Verstappen's first win in Formula 1. The Dutchman held off the experienced Kimi Raikkonen for 40 laps, which impressed Marko and the Red Bull Racing team.

Verstappen currently leads the driver's championship. The Dutchman has a 34-point lead over teammate Sergio Perez. The gap to rival Charles Leclerc is even greater with a difference of 43 points.