Marko: 'This is how Perez can intervene in duel between Hamilton and Verstappen'

With the first Grand Prix of 2021 behind us, it's time to take stock of the standings, according to Red Bull Racing's Helmut Marko. He sees plenty of room for improvement for his team ahead of the second Grand Prix and the continuation of the battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

'We have to learn from our mistakes,' begins the Red Bull owner in conversation with Sport 24 Auto. 'If you want to beat Mercedes you have to be perfect.'

Marko additionally has a good word to say for Lewis Hamilton, who managed to snatch victory from RBR's hands at the Bahrain International Circuit. 'Because Hamilton, one has to admit that without suffering, delivered an impeccable race. He and Verstappen are great', said the Austrian.

The 77-year-old team owner hopes that Sergio Perez can make himself valuable in the duel between Hamilton and Verstappen during the course of the season. He explains: 'Perez, if he does a good qualifying, can intervene in the duel between Hamilton and Verstappen. The others are too far back. McLaren is missing a second..'