Red Bull's Helmut Marko Expresses Double Doubt on Max Verstappen's F1 Title Chances

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has articulated two primary reasons why he harbors doubts about Max Verstappen securing a fifth consecutive F1 drivers' championship this season. Despite an impressive resurgence that has seen Verstappen dramatically cut into the dominant McLarens' lead, the path to another title remains steep.

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's pursuit of a fifth F1 title is one of the most compelling narratives in the current season, especially after his significant comeback. His ability to consistently challenge the formidable McLarens, who once seemed insurmountable, speaks volumes about his skill and the recent improvements to the RB21. For Red Bull, securing another championship would solidify their legacy, while for McLaren, holding off Verstappen would mark a triumphant return to the sport's pinnacle.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Comeback: At one point, Verstappen trailed Oscar Piastri by a staggering 104 points. However, a strong run of form, including two victories and a second-place finish in the last three rounds, has reduced that deficit to 63 points with six rounds (three sprints) remaining.
• RB21 Upgrades: A recent floor upgrade to the RB21 has significantly boosted its competitiveness, allowing it to once again challenge the pace of the MCL39, which previously appeared to be the dominant car on the grid.
• Marko's First Doubt: McLaren's Internal Rivalry: Helmut Marko, 82, believes Red Bull cannot win the title "on our own." He pointed to the escalating tension within McLaren, particularly the contact between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at the Singapore Grand Prix, which created significant friction and took some shine off their Constructors' Championship lead. Marko suggested that if "the McLaren drivers continue to disagree and there are further incidents, it's not impossible" for Verstappen to capitalize.
• Marko's Second Doubt: Consistent RB21 Performance: Even if McLaren's internal issues persist, Marko emphasized that the RB21 must maintain its top-tier performance. He stated, "But then we need our car to continue to be in such top condition." This consistent performance is crucial for Verstappen to battle the McLarens until the season's close in Abu Dhabi.

What's next:

Red Bull remains committed to the fight as long as mathematical possibility exists. The upcoming races will be critical for both Red Bull and McLaren. While internal strife could hinder McLaren, Red Bull's ability to consistently deliver a competitive car will be the ultimate determinant of Verstappen's title hopes. The dynamic between Piastri and Norris will also be under intense scrutiny, as any further incidents could play directly into Red Bull's hands. The championship battle is far from over, promising an exciting conclusion to the season.