Red Bull reveal Verstappen Monza charge aided by 'handicap' removal

Red Bull adviser Dr Helmut Marko has highlighted how the recent changes at Monza will benefit the Milton Keynes team at the Italian Grand Prix.

In addition to the opening chicane being re-profiled and a track resurfacing, a number of kerbs have been flattened.

Some of the drivers are "disappointed" by the removal of the kerbs, such as Daniel Ricciardo. George Russell said it was a "shame" to lose the "character" of certain corners.

However, Marko feels the changes could be an advantage to Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

The RB20 has struggled on bumpy track surfaces and has had a difficult time riding kerbs. These issues were particularly prominent at circuits like Monaco.

"The kerbs have clearly become flatter," the Austrian told Sky Sports Germany. "Last year that was a handicap for us, despite winning everything.

"The high temperatures also suit us, although I think during the weekend the grip will improve.

"We are actually missing speed, especially in sector 1. If we can minimise that, I think we can perform quite well."

Whilst the kerb-riding issue has been less prevalent of late, Red Bull has been plagued by an increasing inability to get the RB20 in the right operating window, with balance between the front and rear of the car a key issue.

However, according to Marko, the characteristics of Monza as helped alleviate that issue to an extent.

Verstappen finished atop the timing sheets in FP1 for the Italian Grand Prix, over two-tenths of a second clear Charles Leclerc, who was next fastest. Meanwhile, Perez was ninth.

In the final practice hour of the day, Red Bull opted not to show its hand, with its two drivers ending the session P14 and P15 and nearly a second off the front-running pace.

"The track has become faster with each lap," Marko said. "But the balance has clearly improved and that is what we were looking for.

"You have to consider the weight of the different cars, but I think we have improved and the car is more predictable. If we keep making good steps now, I'll be positive."