Helmut Marko thinks there are only two drivers who are 'halfway' to Verstappen's level

Just ahead of the big race the ‘Brazil Grand Prix‘, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko thinks that only two drivers are ‘halfway’ Max Verstappen’s level. The two names are rivals Charles Leclerc and seven-time world champion Hamilton, he claims.

While the Briton faced Verstappen in 2021, it was Leclerc’s turn this season. However, the Monegasque was unable to compete with Verstappen and Red Bull. The Red Bull adviser notes that the Ferrari driver performed particularly well in qualifying this season, but was more prone to errors than Verstappen. Marko believes Hamilton will be a more tough enemy for his driver in 2023.

He further added a statement while talking to the German RTL. “Hamilton has a clear advantage in terms of experience. He can motivate himself incredibly and I am also convinced that Mercedes will have a better car next year.”

Helmut Marko aimed at Lewis Hamilton

Helmut Marko has slammed Lewis Hamilton for suggesting that the British team’s overspending last season may have contributed to a different title race outcome.

Max Verstappen secured the title with a controversial win in the final race of the 2021 season, with then-race director Michael Masi ruled to have incorrectly applied the rules in the Abu Dhabi decider. It’s only about time after the Brazil GP to see who will win the title this time.

The ‘cost cap’ saga has added to the intrigue, with Red Bull found guilty of a “minor” breach of the F1 budget cap last season.