Marko highlights saving grace after Verstappen mistake

Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko has identified a silver lining to Max Verstappen's Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying performance.

The Dutchman made a critical error during his final push lap in Q3, something that cost him two-to-three tenths of a second, according to Marko.

That would have theoretically put him third-fastest in Nevada, as opposed to fifth, where he will line up for the race.

However, with title rival Lando Norris only able to qualify sixth, it remains advantage Verstappen as he looks to cement a fourth-consecutive F1 drivers' championship.

“I was optimistic that we would be among the top four and that was definitely on the cards," Marko told ORF following qualifying. "But in the second sector he had a moment in Turn 9, that may have cost him two to three tenths.

“After the practice sessions, this was a good performance and the race is long. At least we are ahead of Lando Norris, so from that point of view everything is going well.”

Sitting 62 points clear of the McLaren driver, Verstappen only needs to end the weekend at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit with a 60-point lead to secure the crown.

Marko outlined how Red Bull will approach the race, with the 27-year-old already ahead of Norris on the road in Sin City.

“We will try to stay ahead of him at the start and after that it all depends on whether we can get away with a one-stop or two-stop, the Austrian explained.

"The tyre wear was not entirely clear," he added before concluding: “We are in a position to win the world title.”