Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko discussed Max Verstappen’s Italian Grand Prix chances following the second practice session on Friday, September 5. Marko emphasized that Verstappen’s opportunity to secure victory at the Monza circuit largely depends on how well McLaren performs during the race weekend.
At 82 years old, Marko remains deeply involved with Red Bull’s strategic approach and expressed cautious optimism that the team could challenge for the win. He stressed that minor details collectively influence the team’s competitiveness against other top Formula 1 contenders at the ‘Temple of Speed.’
Marko commented on the team’s outlook after Friday’s practice sessions, stating:
“We hope to fight with some others, I would say, for the win. If McLaren doesn’t show up with something extra tomorrow.”
—Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing Advisor
“All those things are a little bit minor, but the package together makes a difference.”
—Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing Advisor
While Red Bull has enjoyed strong results at Monza in recent years, with Verstappen winning both the 2022 and 2023 Italian Grands Prix, the team faced challenges at the track previously. Last year’s event was difficult, with Verstappen and teammate Sergio Perez finishing in sixth and eighth places, respectively, after a disappointing weekend.
Verstappen Expresses Encouragement After Friday Practice Runs
Max Verstappen reflected positively on Friday’s practice sessions at Monza, describing the weekend so far as “quite decent.” The four-time world champion highlighted that Red Bull’s pace and handling of the RB21 car improved compared to last year’s struggles at this venue.
Following his sixth-place finish in the final practice, Verstappen explained his increased confidence in the car and the team’s readiness to compete.
“It’s been quite decent. Last year was a difficult weekend for us, and I think we seem a lot more competitive.”
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
“I’ve been happier with the car as well. The sessions have been quite tricky with people going off and putting gravel on the track. But overall, it’s been quite a decent Friday for us.”
—Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing Driver
Earlier in the day, Verstappen posted a fourth-place time during the first practice session and was among the fastest drivers during long-run simulations in the second session. These efforts suggest that both Verstappen and the Red Bull team are working hard to regain a winning edge at Monza.
Outlook for Verstappen and Red Bull Leading into Sunday’s Race
Max Verstappen heads into the remainder of the Italian Grand Prix weekend with the recent momentum of returning to the podium at his home race in Zandvoort fresh in mind. His focus is now firmly set on Sunday, September 7, when the race at Monza will test Red Bull’s ability to replicate last year’s winning performance.
With McLaren’s form potentially influencing the outcome, Verstappen and Red Bull are hopeful that their combined car package and race strategy can deliver another victory at this historic Formula 1 venue, maintaining their strong presence in the championship battle.
