In a shocking turn of events, Helmut Marko, the advisor of Red Bull, boldly declares his unwavering belief that Max Verstappen will remain with the team until 2026, dismissing previous concerns of the driver’s potential departure at the end of the season. Despite speculations fueled by Red Bull’s challenges and the rising competition from McLaren, Marko now exudes confidence in Verstappen’s dedication and loyalty to the team.
Acknowledging the existence of an exit clause in Verstappen’s contract, Marko emphasizes that the Dutch driver remains fully focused on Red Bull, with no intentions of seeking greener pastures elsewhere. Marko clarifies that Verstappen’s future at Red Bull is not solely contingent on clinching the championship this year, highlighting the significance of consistent performance and point maximization.
Marko’s resolute stance is palpable as he asserts, “Max is loyal and has publicly committed to Red Bull. He is entirely focused on his work here. That’s why I believe he isn’t even contemplating a move. On the contrary, I am convinced that Max will continue to race for Red Bull in 2026.”
Looking ahead, Marko reveals insights from discussions held before the season, where all parties, including Verstappen, aligned on the shared goal of defending the title in 2025. However, the unpredictability of motorsport underscores the need to strive for maximum points despite the challenges that may arise.
With Marko’s bold declaration and Verstappen’s unwavering dedication, the Red Bull camp seems poised for stability and success in the upcoming seasons, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey towards further glory in the world of Formula 1.