F1 LIVE: ‘Marko spies twin Verstappen advantages in Norris F1...

Marko Identifies Key Advantages for Verstappen in 2024 F1 Title Battle Against Norris

Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s advisor, has identified two major factors that give Max Verstappen the upper hand over Lando Norris in their 2024 Formula 1 championship battle. With the United States Grand Prix approaching, Verstappen holds a 52-point advantage over Norris, leaving 180 points still in play across the final six races of the season.

Although McLaren has fielded a car that is quicker than Red Bull’s in recent races, Norris has been unable to fully capitalize on its pace. This, according to Marko, is partly due to McLaren’s hesitation in establishing him as their lead driver. Team orders and internal decisions have delayed McLaren’s full backing of Norris, a situation Marko believes has allowed Verstappen to keep his strong lead in the championship standings. Red Bull is also bringing a major upgrade to Austin for the United States Grand Prix, which they expect will address the recent challenges they’ve faced with the RB20’s performance.

Marko pointed out McLaren’s lack of decisiveness in supporting Norris as a key reason for Verstappen’s sustained dominance. He emphasized that had McLaren prioritized Norris earlier in the season, the gap between the two drivers might have been narrower.

“McLaren is consistently fast,” Marko said. “But they probably waited too long to make a clear choice for Norris. As a result, he is still far behind Max.”

Marko also believes that mental strength plays a significant role in the championship race, and this is where Verstappen has a considerable advantage. He described Verstappen as mentally tougher than Norris, suggesting that the McLaren driver may not be equipped to handle the increasing pressure of the title fight.

“Mentally and as a driver, Max is the best. Norris is weak in the beginning of races and he is not the strongest mentally. The pressure increases with every race, because in reality, Norris has to win every time to catch up,” Marko explained.

This assessment reflects Marko’s confidence that Verstappen’s experience and mental fortitude will give him the edge as the championship fight intensifies. While McLaren has made great strides with their car, Norris’s need to deliver near-perfect results in the remaining races puts immense pressure on the young British driver.

Marko further highlighted the importance of the next two races in Austin and Mexico, two circuits where he expects Verstappen to thrive. The Red Bull driver has historically performed well at both venues, and Marko believes the tracks suit Verstappen’s aggressive driving style.

“With Austin and Mexico ahead, these are circuits where Max has the upper hand. They play to his strengths, and that’s why we believe he will maintain or even extend his lead,” Marko said.

Despite McLaren’s surge in performance, Marko is convinced that Verstappen’s superior mental resilience, combined with the forthcoming upgrade package, will solidify Red Bull’s chances in the final stages of the season.

While Norris has shown flashes of brilliance, Marko’s assessment highlights the difficulties of closing such a significant gap in a championship battle. The title may still be within reach for Norris, but McLaren’s indecision in positioning him as their number-one driver and his need for flawless performances create a challenging scenario. Verstappen, on the other hand, continues to demonstrate the consistency and mental toughness required to stay on top.

As the season resumes in Austin, the spotlight remains on the rivalry between the two drivers, but with Verstappen’s points advantage and strategic upgrades, the odds appear to be in his favor.