Marko acknowledges headache for Verstappen the defending world champion has long complained about

12:49, 29 Jun

Updated: 13:55, 29 Jun

byHidde Korte

Max Verstappen had a disappointing Saturday in Austria, finishing seventh in qualifying and continuously complaining about his car. Helmut Marko saw Verstappen struggling and pinpointed a problem that the Dutchman has been complaining about for some time.

Verstappen has mentioned this issue several times throughout the season. Marko had previously stated that the problems would be resolved, but after the Austrian Grand Prix qualifying session, the issue resurfaced. Marko was asked about the problems by the German branch of Sky Sports.

‘’We switched brakes, and we also received different brake pads. Apparently, it's challenging to find the right direction with them, but it seems to have been resolved in the meantime.’’

Verstappen complains about lack of grip

During qualifying, Verstappen experienced difficulties with his RB20. Throughout the sessions, the world champion constantly complained about a lack of grip

However, during his last flying lap, the Dutchman had some bad luck, as Pierre Gasly spun in front of him, causing the yellow flags to be waved. As a result, the defending world champion couldn't complete his attempt.

After qualifying, it seemed that Verstappen might be able to move up a few places due to a penalty for George Russell in the pit lane. However, the Briton only received a warning.

Immediately after qualifying, the Dutchman switched gears and was soon seen on a livestream.