Marko delivers Verstappen confidence boost on home turf

Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko believes pole position is a real possibility at the Dutch Grand Prix, as heavy rain looks set to cause chaos. 

Friday morning's running in Zandvoort was made unrepresentative due to rain, whilst second practice was completed in entirely dry conditions. 

Third practice was effectively wiped-out following a heavy crash for Logan Sargeant in very wet conditions, which triggered a lengthy red flag.

Rain is set to remain for qualifying on Saturday afternoon, which will suit Max Verstappen and his ability in tricky conditions. 

Verstappen ended the opening day fifth on the timesheets and three tenths adrift of pacesetter George Russell, although Marko revealed Red Bull did not run on full power.

"I believe we look good for qualifying. We didn't drive with full power," Marko told Motorsport-Magazin.

Mercedes and McLaren both looked strong on the first day in FP2; however, the rain could change everything in qualifying. 

This is because overtaking in Zandvoort is very tricky, making Marko confident that pole on Saturday regardless of race pace could be enough for victory.

"I think we definitely have a good chance of pole position then," said Marko. "And I think if you're ahead in the race, it doesn't really matter if you lose a few more tenths. 

"It's also different between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. The tyre wear is very peculiar."

A key feature in the useful second practice was that the leading pace was six tenths faster than the quickest time from FP2 last season. 

Even Verstappen was up on his FP2 time from 12 months ago, despite the fact his RB20's balance was not entirely correct. 

It was a similar story for Sergio Perez's car, although the Mexican driver was down in 12th on the opening day.

"We haven't found a completely neutral or predictable balance yet," Marko revealed.

"That would obviously help the drivers a lot. We are four tenths faster than last year, but it will still be exciting and interesting."

Despite Mercedes topping Friday, Marko views Norris as Red Bull's biggest threat this weekend. Marko has this view due to McLaren having less tyre wear issues than the Silver Arrows. 

"I think that's Norris," Marko stated. "In terms of tyre wear, they [Mercedes] have clearly had more problems than McLaren, for example."