Marko fires 'ejector seat' warning to Red Bull wannabes

Helmut Marko has warned anyone stepping in to replace Sergio Perez that being Max Verstappen's team-mate turns the cockpit into an 'ejector seat'.

Verstappen has won the last three world titles, and claimed 19 of a possible 22 race victories last season - with team-mate Perez picking up just two in a barren campaign.

Despite achieving the first 1-2 in the championship in the team’s history and being given another year with Red Bull, Perez struggled to compete against his team-mate last season and will be under increased pressure to stay in F1.

If the Mexican is to underperform, the newly-rebranded Visa Cash App RB drivers – Tsunoda and Ricciardo – will be eyeing a move to the senior team if the opportunity arises.

READ MORE: Horner Red Bull investigation official VERDICT announced

Marko warns drivers over second Red Bull seat

“For both of them [Ricciardo and Tsunoda], it’s not just about staying in Formula 1, but also about the opportunity to move up to Red Bull Racing. This applies to whoever clearly dominates the season within the team.”

The Austrian did stress that Perez is still very much an option for the team in 2025 and while he does not see the Mexican’s focus on the title coming to reality, Marko affirmed that Perez will stay in the running for the seat if he is consistent and wins races, having claimed two victories in 2023.

“Checo has to perform consistently,” Marko reiterated.

“It’s clear that he can’t always drive at Verstappen’s level. If he finishes second in the World Championship and wins one or two races, he will certainly be an option for 2025.”

READ MORE: Hamilton reveals thoughts on Horner investigation

Related

More F1 news

Full News Feed

F1 Results Today: George Russell a second down as Ferrari dominate at Australian GP

• 1 hour ago

The awkward Michael Schumacher restroom meeting that became a hilarious joke

• March 4, 2026 23:00

F1 driver at risk of race ban ahead of Australian Grand Prix

• March 4, 2026 21:00

Australian Grand Prix travel chaos forces last-minute changes for F1 teams

• March 4, 2026 19:00

FIA president provides update on Middle East F1 races over Iran missile attacks

• March 4, 2026 17:00

Mick Schumacher crashes out of Indy Car debut on FIRST lap

• March 3, 2026 23:00