Helmut Marko reveals Max Verstappen conversation before Abu Dhabi pole 'magic'

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has revealed a conversation he had with Max Verstappen before he claimed pole position for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. 

The four-time world champion delivered two sensational laps in the final part of qualifying to defeat both McLaren drivers to pole at the Yas Marina Circuit. 

He was one-tenth quicker than Lando Norris who joins him on the front row, whilst fellow title rival Oscar Piastri starts from third. 

Before qualifying, Verstappen's car had looked difficult to drive; however, Red Bull made crucial changes which made the RB21 come alive. 

According to Marko, he told Verstappen before qualifying that a "magic lap" was needed, with the Dutchman delivering two.

"We very successfully made the car faster and faster," Marko told Sky DE. "I spoke briefly with Max beforehand. I said, 'You know we need a magic lap from you.' And then he just drove two."

The changes made by Red Bull put Verstappen in a position where fighting for pole was possible, although Marko believes the adjustments could actually be better suited to the race.

"We adjusted the car and we think these changes in the race might even be more positive," added Marko. 

"And now let's see: the first three in the championship are also in the first three starting places. That will probably be quite interesting already at the first corner, and over race distance we will see how it turns out."

Despite securing pole, Verstappen still needs Norris to finish the final race of the season off the podium, in order to become a five-time world champion. 

Marko had "hoped" Mercedes would take the fight to McLaren in qualifying, but it was not the case. 

"We had hoped that Mercedes might also be in, but as it looks now maybe only Charles Leclerc," said Marko. 

"We actually still need someone between us and the McLarens. That would come in handy."