Helmut Marko delivers a definitive update on Max Verstappen’s Red Bull future after revealing his own exit
Helmut Marko has issued a clear statement about Max Verstappen’s long-term prospects with Red Bull following his announcement that he is stepping away from his role as motorsport advisor for Red Bull Racing after two decades.
Over 20 years, the Austrian has helped steer 20 drivers into Formula 1, with two of them—Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen—going on to win world championships, while Daniel Ricciardo has also secured race victories under his guidance.
Verstappen’s future at Red Bull has frequently been in question, particularly since his contract runs through 2028.
In early 2024, amid allegations of inappropriate conduct leveled at former team principal Christian Horner (which he denies), Verstappen made it clear that if Marko left the team, he would likely follow, given the close bond between the two men.
Verstappen’s contract also includes an exit clause that could allow him to depart if he isn’t in a lead championship position, a threshold believed to be third place during the 2025 season, a target he did reach.
As a result, Verstappen was effectively secured for 2026, but Marko’s departure has signaled that the 71-time Grand Prix winner is not planning to walk away from Red Bull.
"No. Max isn’t just aiming to win; he wants to win within a harmonious environment," Marko told Kleine Zeitung when asked whether Verstappen’s future with Red Bull was in question.
When asked about Verstappen’s initial reaction to Marko’s decision to step down, the former shared that the Dutch driver still believed in the championship challenge, which ultimately came up just short by two points.
"I would say he was a little sad about it," Marko remarked.
"We reflected once again on the incredible time we’ve shared. I was the first to believe this season, and with Gianpiero Lambiase, I was among the few who still believed in a world championship. We approached it with great passion and commitment, which is why the disappointment when it didn’t materialize was so painful. From that disappointment grew the sense that now is the right moment to step back."
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