Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has claimed the atmosphere at the Milton Keynes-based team is “tense” following Max Verstappen’s difficult weekend in Hungary.

Verstappen publicly criticised Red Bull’s strategy over the team radio en route to fifth place, using a number of expletives on the team radio to express his displeasure with decisions made during the race.

The difficult outing came as Red Bull faced increasing pressure from rival teams including McLaren, who finished 1-2 at the race.

“The atmosphere was a bit tense,” Marko told Kleine Zeitung .

“The race got out of hand and it started with the fact that he didn’t think he should give the position back after Lap 1. Then it just kept going.”

Verstappen has been involved in some heated discussions with race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase, who has worked with the Dutchman since he joined the team in 2016.

Marko revealed that the pair sat down to talk about the race after the chequered flag was thrown.

“They sat down and talked about it.”

Verstappen set for Belgian GP penalty
Verstappen will be handed a 10-place start penalty at Spa-Francorchamps for fitting a fifth combustion engine.

Marko said the goal of a podium finish is still within reach – but admitted it will be a challenging task with Red Bull’s rivals now competing for pace.

“It’s been a tough season for him [Verstappen] and he’s only human,” said Marko. “We’re still leading, but we’re not so dominant anymore.

“Verstappen could also struggle at Spa because of the upcoming power unit change.

“There’s a possibility and then it will be ten places back on the grid. But I hope that overtaking will be easier than in Hungary.

“Podiums are possible, but it will be much more difficult than in previous years.’