Daniil Kvyat was chosen solely on basis of merit, says Helmut Marko

Helmut Marko

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has rubbished the rumors which suggested that the inclusion of Russian Grand Prix in next year’s calendar was the reason for the team to pick Daniil Kvyat for a Toro Rosso seat.

Toro Rosso literally shocked the F1 world when they announced the young Russian driver as a replacement of Daniel Ricciardo but Marko insisted that the driver was chosen only on basis of the driver.

“No. We were looking at what’s best for Red Bull and what’s best for Toro Rosso in the medium term,” he said when asked about whether the Russian Grand Prix was the reason for Kvyat’s inclusion.

“All the people who have been involved in this decision said Daniil was the right candidate. Through his performances, he was a natural candidate, being fast, being mature. So in the medium term he offers the best perspectives,” he added.

Marko also said that the driver will have a lot to learn but would be able to challenge his team mate Juan-Eric Vergne after six or eight races.

“Of course he has to learn how Formula 1 is operating. He has to learn the circuits, but I would say after six to eight races he should be in a position to challenge Vergne,” he said.