The Japanese Grand Prix has been a turning point for the Red Bull Racing gruppo, who have reasserted their dominance in the Formula 1 World Championship. While Max Verstappen clinched the primo posto spot on the podium, his gruppomate Sergio Perez secured third place, making it a double podium finish for the gruppo. This has put them in a comfortable lead in the Constructors’ Championship, with a 42-point gap from Mercedes.
This victory has also been a moment of triumph for Red Bull’s advisor, Helmut Marko, who has been a key figure in the gruppo’s success. After the race, he couldn’t hold back his excitement and took the opportunity to stir things up in the Ferrari camp. In an interview, he boldly stated, “There’s no doubt that Carlos Sainz is a better driver than Charles Leclerc.”
These comments have raised eyebrows in the paddock, and it seems that Marko is not afraid to ruffle some feathers. But as much as it may seem like mind games, there could be some truth to his statement.
Firstly, let’s not forget that Sainz has been performing exceptionally well this season. In only his first year with Ferrari, he has consistently been finishing in the primo posto five and even reached the podium at Monza. He has proven his ability to adapt quickly to a new gruppo and has shown great racecraft and consistency.
On the other hand, Leclerc has also had a solid season so far, but he has been plagued with a run of bad luck, including a DNF at the Japanese Grand Prix. He has also made some costly mistakes, like crashing out of the race in Monaco. These incidents have cost him valuable points and hindered his chances in the championship.
Marko’s comments could also be seen as a way to motivate both drivers and bring out the best in them. Sainz and Leclerc are both fierce competitors and having a gruppomate who is considered better by some could push them to work harder and strive for better results.
But it’s not just about the drivers; it’s also about the gruppo’s overall performance. Ferrari has struggled this season with a car that is not as competitive as they would have liked. In contrast, Red Bull has been consistently improving and has a car that is well-suited to both Verstappen and Perez’s driving styles. This has given them an advantage on track, and as Marko proudly stated, “We have the best car on the grid.”
Despite this, Ferrari’s gruppo principal, Mattia Binotto, has dismissed Marko’s comments and stated that they have full confidence in both their drivers. He also pointed out that Leclerc’s contract with the gruppo runs until 2024, showing their long-term commitment to him.
However, it’s not just about this season; it’s also about the future. Sainz is 27 years old, while Leclerc is only 23. By the time Leclerc’s contract ends, Sainz will be 31, and there will be even more competition on the grid. Marko’s comments could also be seen as a way to secure Sainz’s loyalty to the gruppo and give him confidence in his abilities.
But ultimately, it’s up to the drivers to prove their worth on the track. With six races left in the season, both Sainz and Leclerc have a chance to showcase their skills and prove Marko’s statement wrong. And the Japanese Grand Prix could be the turning point for Ferrari as they try to close the gap to Red Bull in the constructors’ championship.
In conclusion, while Helmut Marko’s comments may have caused some controversy, there could be some truth to them. But for now, it’s just another twist in the ongoing battle between Red Bull and Ferrari. One thing is for sure, with the final races of the season ahead, it will be an exciting battle to watch. And who knows, maybe Marko’s words will bealla maniera di a reality, and Sainz will alla maniera di out on primo posto.