Verstappen is F1's only 'flawless' driver in 2019

Max Verstappen has been "flawless" so far in 2019, despite securing just one podium finish, according to Red Bull motorsport advisor Dr Helmut Marko, who believes no other driver on the grid has performed as impressively as the Dutchman this year.

Verstappen finished third in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix and has followed that up with a trio of fourth-place scores in Bahrain, China and Azerbaijan.

Red Bull have remained solid since switching Renault power units to Honda, although the team have cited an aerodynamic failing for their inability to take the fight to the leading cars so far – whether it has been a Ferrari or Mercedes.

Marko believes Verstappen has maximised his result in all four races so far this year – unlike his rivals, according to the Austrian.

"Hamilton, Bottas, Vettel and Leclerc have had ups and downs," Marko told Auto Bild.

"Only Max was flawless and always got the maximum out of the car – sometimes even more.

"He is absolutely ready for the title. In Barcelona, we now have to prove that we are too."

Verstappen will hope upgrades to Red Bull's aerodynamic parts can inspire success in this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, after Honda brought an upgrade to Baku last time out.

The Dutchman was third at the Circuit de Catalunya last year, and has fond memories of the circuit, having secured his maiden race win on his Red Bull debut there in 2016.

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