Marko expresses rare criticism of Verstappen: 'We thought he had peace now'

Helmut Marko is usually lyrical about 'his' star driver Max Verstappen, but the Dutchman could count on criticism from the Red Bull Racing chief after the qualifying session at Albert Park. Marko indicates that he wants to have a heart-to-heart with the reigning world champion.

As Verstappen pointed out, he is not quite comfortable in his RB18 this weekend. He repeatedly struggled to find the limit, sometimes going over it according to Marko. "I think sometimes he wants a bit too much," he hinted to the German arm of Sky Sports.

"We thought that with the world title a certain peace had returned, but apparently he needs another title," the Austrian continued. He states that the world champion still starts qualifying sessions with a lot of pressure on his shoulders.

This is where he wants to speak to the driver, but he wants to let him "cool down first". The Red Bull chief plans to talk to Verstappen later in the day or on Sunday morning.