Nicole MulderManaging Editor
Nicole Mulder is Managing Editor at GPblog and a specialist in Formula 1 and MotoGP. With years of experience and permanent FIA accreditation at Grands Prix worldwide, she delivers reliable coverage and insights based on direct access to drivers and the F1 paddock.
In a preview of the 2025 Formula One season, Helmut Marko shares his expectations, noting that he anticipates minimal opposition from Mercedes. He also expresses doubt that Lewis Hamilton would be able to beat Max Verstappen, even with a better car.
Marko does not think Hamilton can beat Verstappen
Marko sees McLaren and Ferrari as Red Bull's main competitors. "The two race teams had the best base for their cars last season and were able to perform well on most circuits. They can build on that. But: none of the drivers stand out for me," he assessed in conversation with Sport Bild.
The 81-year-old Austrian believes Lando Norris showed he was mentally not ready for the world championship yet, while his teammate Oscar Piastri was too inexperienced. Moreover, they would both take points off each other next season, a situation Marko also expects to see at Ferrari.
"Charles Leclerc is good in qualifying but makes a lot of mistakes in the races. And Lewis Hamilton still has the speed, but can he keep that up for a whole season? I have my doubts about that. Even if he has a good Ferrari and we build a mediocre Red Bull for Max, I would put my money on Max," Marko concludes.
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This article was written in collaboration with Toby Nixon
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