Helmut Marko issues pecking order verdict after Spanish surprise

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko offered his view on the pecking order following a positive opening day to the Spanish Grand Prix. 

Max Verstappen enjoyed a very strong start in Barcelona to end second practice third on the timesheets, whilst Yuki Tsunoda was in a disappointing 13th.

It marked the first circuit action featuring the new front wing regulations, attempting to clampdown on flexing. 

The field did look closer in Spain, with the top four teams having all featured in the top five on the timesheets – Oscar Piastri led the way.

Marko is pleased to see Red Bull back in the mix, although has recognised that Ferrari and Mercedes have also made progress.

"Overall, the whole field has moved closer together," Marko told Sky DE. "Ferrari and Mercedes have closed the gap, and so have we. 

"But overall we are satisfied. We haven't had such a good Friday for a long time."

Despite Marko believing McLaren's advantage has been reduced, he recognised that the Woking-based team do still have a "slight preponderance" over Red Bull.

Nevertheless, the 82-year-old is very pleased heading into the weekend, with Red Bull having "small improvements" to make.

"But as I said before, we, Mercedes and Ferrari have closed the gap," Marko added. "And I think it's a matter of tuning how the whole thing will play out in the race."