Marko doesn't want Verstappen to take unnecessary risk: 'Pressure is on Ferrari'

Max Verstappen is not on pole position, but Helmut Marko is optimistic about Sunday's Italian Grand Prix. The Red Bull Racing advisor expects his team to come back strongly in the race, but there will be no unnecessary risks taken to beat Ferrari.

Speaking to Sky Germany, Marko said he was 'surprised' by how strong Ferrari were in qualifying. The RB18 lost a lot of time, especially in the first sector. "In the race I assume it will look different. The people in front of us are not the fastest," the Austrian told me optimistically.

Verstappen finished second in qualifying, but the Dutchman has a grid penalty of five spots. Teammate Sergio Perez gets ten spots penalty. However, it is not yet entirely clear from which place the drivers will start, as there are at least nine drivers in total with grid penalties.

Marko: 'Could be second or third'

According to the Red Bull advisor, Verstappen will not be under any pressure on Sunday. "Of course we will try to challenge Ferrari, but if that is not possible we can also afford to finish second or third. The pressure is on Ferrari," Marko said, referring to the standings in the world championship. Verstappen has a comfortable lead and does not need to win every race to secure the title. Red Bull also has a comfortable lead in the Constructors' Championship.