Red Bull questions raised as Max Verstappen penalty verdict delivered

Helmut Marko has insisted that Max Verstappen's 10-second time penalty was "justified", with the advisor also questioning a crucial Red Bull decision. 

Verstappen started the Miami Sprint from fourth but quickly progressed past Kimi Antonelli and into third, where he remained for considerable time. 

The Dutchman looked set for a sprint podium, before a disastrous pit-stop for slick tyres saw the four-time world champion penalised. 

Red Bull released Verstappen directly into Kimi Antonelli, resulting in a collision between the pair.

Marko had no argument with the penalty following the incident, but was also unsure why the team fitted the 27-year-old with the medium compound.

"Unfortunately Max was sent off too early at the pit stop," Marko told ServusTV. "The penalty was justified and the tyre choice (mediums) should also be questioned. 

"But I think the lack of speed was mainly due to the damage to the front wing. The soft tyre probably wouldn't have helped either."

Following the disappointment of the sprint incident, Marko's focus has switched to qualifying. He is hopeful that progress can be made, although recognised McLaren's speed.

"There have already been findings, but now we have to wait and see how that will affect qualifying," added Marko. 

"It is clear that McLaren is very fast, although with the right strategy and an earlier stop there could have been a lot more."