Marko: "No new Verstappen in Red Bull academy"
- Published on 02 Jun 2017 15:56
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- By: Fergal Walsh
Since Max Vertsappen's arrival in Formula 1 in 2015, he has made the headlines all over the world for his speed. The Red Bull driver academy has produced some great talent in recent years including the four currently competing in Formula 1 - Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, Daniil Kvyat and Verstappen.
However, Dr Helmut Marko, who heads the academy and searches for the young talent, says that nobody in their current crop of young drivers come close to the abilities and speed of Verstappen.
"In the new generation, no one comes close to the level of Verstappen. In GP3 we have Finn Niko Kari. He could be very fast in the long run and can possibly go far."
"We have Neil Verhagen who still needs some time, as the motorsport ladder in the US is a different level. You can't compare him with European drivers. Richard Verschoor last year won titles in Formula 4, but now his performances are somewhat disappointing. And then Ticktum is not consistent enough."
Ticktum, Verschoor and Verhagen are all active in the Formula 2.0 Eurocup. Of that trio, Ticktum is at this moment highest in the standings, in eighth place with 37 points. Verschoor occupies the ninth position, with 33 points. Verhagen has 14 points and is twelfth.
Fergal Walsh
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Replies (4)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Max has certainly improved, I'd dare say Ricciardo might have reason to be worried. But as of now Im probably more impressed by Ocon, the guy literally jumped into an F1 car last season and went away. He could very well end up becoming a champion if he get a decent car.
ajpennypacker
Posts: 2,475
Marko is such a douche... why would you say that? I would be discouraging for drivers in the academy.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Yeah, but Marko isnt exactly renowned for building puppy shelters. Its hardly a nice statement, but its probably an honest opinion from him. Or its just a means to further make Max the RB poster boy and milk more money from it.
DutchTreath
Posts: 5,058
@ajpennypacker
Maybe it's just his way to motivate the RB talents to do a better job. It is not a kindergarten you know. RB invest a lot in these drivers.