Marko: 'Verstappen could easily have been on pole'

Max Verstappen could 'easily' have been on pole in the Brazilian sprint race. So says Helmut Marko after qualifying at Interlagos, where Kevin Magnussen grabbed a shocking P1. Like Sergio Perez, Marko is not very happy with the actions of Ferrari and Charles Leclerc.

Verstappen was two tenths short of pole, stating he lost that time due to a mistake at turn eight. Marko agrees with the Red Bull Racing driver's words, but at the same time is full of praise for Magnussen's performance. "Magnussen seized his chance, went out first and drove a flawless lap. Max had a braking problem in turn eight and lost five tenths there," Marko told Sky Sports Germany.

Marko balks at Ferrari and Leclerc

Pole would therefore have been "relatively easy" according to the Red Bull advisor from Graz. However, the biggest loss was suffered by Perez, who got stuck behind Leclerc, who was sent out on the wrong tyres. "He trusted Ferrari to call Leclerc to the pits and then got stuck behind him," says Marko.

He continued: "It's a shame because I think he would have finished third or fourth. But if the conditions are the same tomorrow I think a lot is still possible," Marko said, stressing just to be sure: "I think we are clearly faster than the Haas."

However, that does not mean that Verstappen does not have to take the Haas driver into account, as Marko is sure he will want to defend his pole position tooth and nail. "Magnussen is a tough fighter who will take on anyone. So for Max it's a matter of getting in front, but without risk. Then I think it should be enough for a win in the sprint," Marko said.