Marko issues Red Bull striking '2021' Hamilton title fight warning

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has warned that Lewis Hamilton can fight for the F1 drivers' title this year and return to his 2021 form, but insists Max Verstappen is still the "best driver". 

Hamilton has caught significant attention ahead of the new season following his move to Ferrari, with many outlining the seven-time world champion as a championship contender this year. 

Even without the Briton, Ferrari ended last season very strongly and have been tipped to have one of the strongest packages in next month's season-opening Australian Grand Prix. 

Ferrari's 2025 car – the SF-25 – was officially unveiled on Wednesday morning at its Fiorano test circuit, with it immediately being noted that the car appeared to turn sharply. 

Marko insists that more will be known if Hamilton is a threat to Verstappen after pre-season testing next week in Bahrain.

"We'll know that after the tests, when we see how good the Ferrari is," Marko told OE24. "Max is definitely the best driver."

Whilst Hamilton has been touted as a title contender by some, others have questioned if the 40-year-old's move to Ferrari has come too late in his career. 

Marko does not believe that is the case and is adamant that if the 105-time race winner is motivated and confident and qualifies well with Ferrari that he can rediscover his 2021 form.

"I would be cautious about that," insisted Marko. "If Hamilton is motivated, he can continue where he left off in 2021. The comeback he delivered back then was impressive. 

"The Ferrari has to be competitive, though. And Hamilton has to get qualifying right, that was never his strength. 

"If he loses two or three tenths to Leclerc, he always has to work his way up a few starting positions. That puts a strain on the tyres."