Helmut Marko makes remarkable Yuki Tsunoda statement

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has claimed Yuki Tsunoda is the first team-mate of Max Verstappen who has the potential to match the pace of the four-time champion.

Tsunoda was called up in place of Liam Lawson after the opening two rounds of the campaign as the New Zealander struggled for form.

Tsunoda has endured his own challenges but has progressed to Q3 on three occasions behind the wheel of the RB21, as well as picking up six championship points.

While the gap to Verstappen is still quite large, Marko is encouraged by what he has seen from Tsunoda as he sent a declaration of confidence to the 24-year-old.

"Yuki is getting better and better," Marko told oe24. "He is the first team-mate of Verstappen who can actually match the level of Max.”

However, Marko highlighted the biggest issue Red Bull currently has with the Japanese driver.

“Unfortunately, he still makes too many mistakes when the pressure starts to mount,” Marko added.

Red Bull has been unable to consistently challenge standings leader McLaren across the opening six rounds of the campaign.

Championship leader Oscar Piastri has won four of the grands prix staged so far, drawing praise from Marko.

“I am very impressed,” Marko said. “Oscar always stays cool and constantly puts pressure on everyone to ride at the front. That's really refreshing. 

“But I wouldn't underestimate Isack Hadjar either. He grabbed a new championship point in Miami by a few hundredths.”