Marko Critical of Ricciardo and Tsunoda's F1 Start

Helmut Marko expresses disappointment with Ricciardo and Tsunoda’s performance at RB F1, highlighting potential changes.

Helmut Marko remains unimpressed by Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda’s season start with RB F1. Red Bull’s motorsport consultant laments the lack of performance from the two drivers of Red Bull Racing’s sister team, noting that the best among them might have a shot at the main team.

“The stakes are high for Tsunoda and Ricciardo. Both are vying for a spot at Red Bull, but for that to happen, one must significantly outperform the other,” observes Marko.

“So far, Ricciardo has been somewhat lagging behind. To put it plainly: Tsunoda’s qualifying speed is adequate. However, in the races, both are too slow.”

According to the Austrian, RB F1 could have scored a point in Bahrain and another in Jeddah, and he directly attributes the team’s zero score to the drivers’ accountability: “I believe scoring a point in each of the first two races was possible.”

“It’s very challenging to earn points behind the top five teams, and when the opportunity arises, mistakes cannot be afforded. Decisions must be made correctly.”

The current disfavor of the RB F1 drivers benefits Sergio Pérez, who faces no immediate threat at Red Bull: “Sergio is in a very strong position right now. He has performed exceptionally well in the first two races and is second in the championship. We are pleased with him.”

“The question of who might replace Pérez isn’t really on the table. But this is about the future. Pérez, like Ricciardo, is not getting any younger. Taking into account other aspects, another driver could definitely be considered for this process.”

The potential of Liam Lawson, who impressed as a reserve in 2023, raises questions: “He first needs to get behind the wheel and prove himself. But what he showed during his outings in 2023 was very promising.”

Marko Critical of Ricciardo and Tsunoda’s F1 Start. Marko Critical of Ricciardo and Tsunoda’s F1 Start