Marko gives Verstappen instructions: 'We have a chance'

Max Verstappen starts Sunday afternoon's Qatar Grand Prix in second place. With Lewis Hamilton, the Dutchman must strike quickly at the start, because otherwise, the Brit can grab the victory. Helmut Marko knows that too.

The Red Bull Racing advisor watched with satisfaction as Verstappen secured second place. However, the gap to Hamilton was considerable, so the Red Bull driver will have to force something during the start to go for the victory.

"Mercedes is not so sure with full tanks. At least, that's how it's been so far," Marko noted in conversation with Auto, Motor und Sport. "We have a chance until the first pit stop. Otherwise Hamilton can stay out of reach for us."

Sergio Perez did a lot less on Saturday. The Mexican finished no further than eleventh, making it a tough job for him to end up in the top five. Moreover, he will not be able to help Verstappen. "Perez needs more time to adapt. You can put whatever you want on Max. Small wing or big wing: he just drives hard," Marko said.