Marko: "Max is the only driver in the top ten to start on the mediums"

Helmut Marko is expecting Red Bull to have an advantage during the Austrian Grand Prix following their decision to run Max Verstappen on the medium tyres in Q2 of qualifying. Mercedes achieved a front row lockout with the two Red Bull cars P3 and P5.

"Fortunately we were able to improve during qualifying, but in the decisive last run we were not successful," Helmut Marko told ORF after qualifying.

"The distance to Mercedes is relatively large, but the positive thing is that Max is the only driver in the top ten to start on the mediums." 

"Expectations for tomorrow are that temperatures will rise. That will probably play an important role. We still don't have a perfectly tuned car for a long time, but that will happen. It is important to know that we are in the right direction."

Finally, Marko was surprised by the strategic choice of Mercedes.

"I didn't expect Mercedes not to go for the yellow belt. That has worked out well for us. If the tire wear remains as we predicted it will be a big advantage for us in the race," said Marko.