Fans doubtful that 2026 overtakes are 'authentic' - Marko

      "The excitement of the spectators captivates me," Marko expressed.

      Bernie Ecclestone and Dr. Helmut Marko may be retired now, yet both remain keen followers of Formula 1, even as traditionalists question the authenticity of the sport during the hybrid era. According to veteran journalist Roger Benoit from Blick, Ecclestone (95), Marko (83), and former team owner Peter Sauber (82) still watch nearly every practice session, qualifying event, and race. "The excitement of the spectators captivates me," Marko stated. "Typically, the races are thrilling. Take Hungary, for instance, where previously there was often just a processional race with little overtaking."

      However, the former Red Bull advisor is not entirely convinced that the action derived from the 2026 regulations represents true racing. "It's evident that fans enjoy all the overtaking maneuvers," he remarked. "Sadly, very few people know if they're authentic or simply a product of the circumstances. Often, one car can only make a spectacular outbraking move because the car ahead is recharging its battery."

      Despite this, Marko commended the two drivers who have impressed him most this season. Both he and Ecclestone are captivated by championship leader Kimi Antonelli's speed and composure, while Marko singled out Max Verstappen's performance in Hungary. "The way Max outbraked Hamilton twice on that narrow track is one of the standout moments of 2026," he noted.

      Verstappen has secured podium finishes in three of the last four races, despite the unpredictable performance of the Red Bull-Ford; however, he now trails Antonelli by 110 points. Bookmakers have increased his championship odds to 43-1. "With odds like these, I feel compelled to place a bet again," Ecclestone chuckled. "But unfortunately, it seems unlikely that Max will pull it off."