Marko on Red Bull: 'We will not be as dominant as in 2022'

On 5 March the first Grand Prix of this season will start in Bahrain. Helmut Marko, advisor at Red Bull, revealed to Austrian Krone his thoughts on the upcoming season.

Marko expects Max to be 'sovereign' within the team, he has continued to develop in incredible ways. Furthermore, according to the Austrian, he has become a real tyre whisperer and has a great overview during races.

After the departure of Daniel Ricciardo in 2018, it took a while before Verstappen really had a permanent teammate he could rely on again, for Pierre Gasly and Alexander Albon their time alongside the Dutchman was only short-lived. Current teammate Sergio Perez however does seem to have a taste for it.

"Sergio is growing because of Max. And: you first have to be able to tolerate a teammate like Verstappen for three years," Marko said. So Perez is well on his way, entering the third year and his bond with Verstappen has not suffered any major dents so far. The advisor does note that Verstappen will still be the superior factor this season.

Defending the title

It will hopefully soon become clear who can compete with Red Bull for the world title, both in the drivers and constructors championships. "We want to defend both titles. But, I don't count on such a dominant season [from us] as 2022," said Marko. Conclusively, it is still too early to cheer.