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Helmut Marko reveals ‘sudden problem’ that affected Red Bull’s US Grand Prix

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Helmut Marko reveals ‘sudden problem’ that affected Red Bull’s US Grand Prix

Red Bull had a difficult race during the US Grand Prix as Max Verstappen almost fell off the podium and Sergio Perez struggled to beat George Russell.

Although the team had started well with a Sprint race pole and victory for Max Verstappen, the race was different as the Dutchman struggled more on the hard tyre.

That left him vulnerable to Lando Norris, who extended his first stint after passing the Red Bull driver heading into the first corner on the first lap.

The pair ended up getting involved in a skirmish on the court, which has left Karun Chandhok wondering if the current rules are fit for purpose.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Red Bull Racing, from the engine to the Ford links

Helmut Marko has revealed that Red Bull were caught in a “sudden problem” during the race, which made it harder for them to catch rivals when speaking to Sky Sports.

Helmut Marko explains the understeer problem that affected Max Verstappen

Perez eventually finished behind Russell after a late pit stop for the Mercedes driver allowed him to make use of tire compensation, while Verstappen moved up to third after Norris was penalized for overtaking.

While there are encouraging signs for Red Bull following their car upgrade, Marko highlighted the problem both drivers faced when they ran the hard tire late in the race.

“Not entirely. We couldn’t maintain the pace we showed in the Sprint, neither with the medium tire nor with the hard tire. We had understeer, but we don’t know why it appeared suddenly,” said Marko.

“At least we are happy to have been able to extend our lead by five points. When Ferrari have their track and everything fits, they have often been very strong, but I don’t think they can repeat that at every track.”

Third-placed Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and 7th-placed Sergio Perez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing speak at…
Photo by Bryn Lennon – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images

Red Bull under threat from Ferrari in Constructors’ Championship

Charles Leclerc’s win meant Ferrari moved eight points clear of Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship as their chances of winning it look even slimmer.

Red Bull are focusing more on Verstappen’s title defence, with Norris’ mixed results in Austin helping their cause.

But with Ferrari now finding rhythm in their car and Perez looking unable to match Verstappen again, it looks like Red Bull could finish third in the title standings.

That will mean millions of pounds lost in prize money for the Milton Keynes side, who originally looked to repeat their 2023 title dominance when the year began.

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