F1 News: Helmut Marko "Very Optimistic" For Japanese GP Despite Unsolved Brake Issues

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko opens up on the team's Australian GP struggles whilst remaining optimistic for the Japanese Grand Prix.

In light of the unexpected issues at the Australian Grand Prix which saw Max Verstappen retire from the race, Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko remains bullish about the team's prospects for the upcoming race in Japan, despite the team grappling with unresolved brake problems.

Key Takeaways:

• Despite a recent hiccup in Melbourne, Helmut Marko is upbeat about Red Bull's chances at the Japanese Grand Prix.
• Red Bull faced setbacks with brake issues on Max Verstappen's vehicle and aerodynamic problems affecting Sergio Perez's performance.
• Marko is optimistic about the team's performance in Suzuka, due to the circuit's suitability for their car and Verstappen's impressive track record there.

Oct 23, 2022; Austin, Texas, USA; Helmut Marko of Red Bull Racing Team holds up the World

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Red Bull's F1 campaign faced a snag in Melbourne, diverging from their dominant trajectory at the season's outset with Verstappen's consecutive victories and Perez's two second-place finishes. The Australian GP brought unforeseen challenges, with a brake malfunction leading to Verstappen's early retirement, and a visor tear-off compromising Perez's car performance. This disruption has prompted speculation about the competitive balance among F1's leading teams, particularly with Ferrari's Carlos Sainz clinching victory and narrowing the gap in the standings.

Despite these challenges, Helmut Marko, Red Bull's senior advisor, is looking forward with optimism to the Japanese Grand Prix. He points to the Suzuka circuit's characteristics, which align well with Red Bull's strengths, and Verstappen's notable success at this venue as reasons for confidence. He commented to Laola1:

“As a result, he was no longer able to set the same times as the front runners that he had previously achieved. The lack of downforce also increased tyre wear.

“Suzuka is a power track that suits us, Max is always great there. I’m very optimistic.”

Marko went on to add that the issue with Verstappen's brakes is still be investigated. He continued:

“Max’s brakes broke, the exact cause is still being investigated.

“But it’s not the brake calliper. It’s more of an assembly issue, but that’s still being investigated. I have no worries for Japan, that’s not a problem.”