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Helmut Marko shuts down Max Verstappen exit rumors with bold statement on Red Bull loyalty

Harry Stone by Harry Stone
January 23, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Helmut Marko Warns Verstappen of Race Ban Risk: ‘He Wasn’t Very Diplomatic’

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - DECEMBER 01: Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Consultant Dr Helmut Marko celebrate in parc ferme during the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on December 01, 2024 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202412010305 // Usage for editorial use only //

Rumors of Max Verstappen’s potential departure from Red Bull Racing have been swirling in recent weeks, fueled by reports of interest from rival teams like Mercedes and Aston Martin. However, Helmut Marko, the 81-year-old Red Bull advisor, has delivered a decisive response, putting any speculation to rest.

Verstappen rumors hit a fever pitch

Reports suggested that Mercedes was eyeing the four-time world champion for a possible 2026 move, while Aston Martin was rumored to be readying a jaw-dropping $1.2 billion proposal to lure Verstappen away from Milton Keynes. These whispers of discontent at Red Bull came despite Verstappen clinching his fifth consecutive world championship in 2025, further solidifying his dominance in Formula 1.

Marko’s unwavering confidence

Marko, known for his no-nonsense approach, was unequivocal in addressing the speculation.

“I know how loyal and grateful he [Max Verstappen] is to Red Bull. That is why he will also be a Red Bull driver in 2026 and as a five-time world champion,” Marko said.

The Austrian advisor dismissed the idea that Verstappen’s loyalty could waver, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the Dutchman and Red Bull, which has propelled both to the pinnacle of Formula 1.

The performance clause mystery

A key aspect fueling the rumors is the reported existence of a performance clause in Verstappen’s contract. Such a clause, if triggered, could allow Verstappen to exit Red Bull should the team fail to deliver a competitive car. While Marko refused to comment on the specifics, he doubled down on Red Bull’s ability to keep Verstappen at the top of the grid.

“I don’t comment on the content of the contract, but in any case, we are confident that we can provide Max with a good car. Our engineers have made good progress with the data. We are optimistic.”

The threat of McLaren and Ferrari

Despite Marko’s confidence, the 2025 season presents potential challenges. With McLaren and Ferrari making strides in performance, any significant drop in Red Bull’s competitiveness could create tension within the team. Such a scenario might force Verstappen to reconsider his options, especially if he sees opportunities elsewhere to add to his already historic legacy.

Red Bull and Verstappen: A dynamic duo

For now, Verstappen remains the undisputed leader of Red Bull Racing, and Marko’s latest remarks reinforce the idea that their partnership is set to continue. However, Formula 1 is a sport of constant change, and while Verstappen’s loyalty is clear for the moment, Red Bull must maintain its competitive edge to ensure the Dutchman doesn’t rethink his future.

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