Marko Fearful of ‘Time Bomb’ Max Verstappen after Dreary Start to 2022 F1 Season

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko is one of Max Verstappen’s biggest fans. The Austrian poached the Dutchman as a youngster and has been his mentor through the years. However, recently he had some very contrasting things to say about Verstappen. Marko has expressed some concerns about his driver’s temperament in case the team’s reliability issues persist.

Here is a video compilation of Max being angry on the team radio.

Helmut Marko wants Max to keep his cool

Max Verstappen throughout his career has had a history of being hot-headed, like the time in Bahrain. Helmut Marko recently said, “If we don’t win again soon, he is indeed a time bomb.” He also believes that the team needs to resolve their reliability issues quickly or Verstappen’s patience might start running thin.

NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JULY 31: Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Red Bull Racing talks with Red Bull Racing Team Consultant Dr Helmut Marko in the garage during practice for the F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone on July 31, 2020 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images,)

He also spoke about Verstappen’s struggles with the 2022 car, “Sometimes he still lacks the confidence with the set-up of his car to maintain his extreme driving style.” 

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However, Marko also assured that Verstappen has been keeping calm lately, “After he retired, he returned to the pit box and we discussed everything calmly,” using Australia as an example.

Verstappen’s shaky start to title defense

The Dutchman secured the 2021 title in the season finale in Abu Dhabi. However, his start in 2022 has not gone to plan. Verstappen had to retire in the opening race of the season due to a fuel pump issue. The second race saw him attain redemption as he snuck the race win away from Charles Leclerc.

Formula One F1 – Australian Grand Prix – Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit, Melbourne, Australia – April 7, 2022 Red Bull’s Max Verstappen ahead of practice REUTERS/Loren Elliott

However, the third race in the streets of Melbourne saw him face disappointment again with another retirement. He currently sits P6 in the driver’s standings 5 points behind his teammate Sergio Perez.

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Verstappen will be hoping for a better showing in Italy in a week’s time. There have been rumors of the team bringing upgrades to Emilia Romagna, which will help Max in his pursuit of the Ferrari of Charles Leclerc.

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