F1 News: Marko makes 'interesting' admission on Verstappen exit rumors

Marko, Newey, Verstappen, socials — Photo: © IMAGO

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Marko makes 'interesting' admission on Verstappen exit rumors

The Red Bull advisor has spoken out on the rumours

Originally written by Sam Cook. This version is a translation.

Monday 11 March 2024 19:00

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has remarked that rumours linking himself, Adrian Newey and Max Verstappen with a move away from the team are of an 'interesting variant'.

Marko has been with the team since they entered the Formula 1 grid in 2005, overseeing years of success and assisting the team in becoming a part of Formula 1 history.

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But rumours around the paddock are constant currently amid the ongoing Christian Horner saga at Red Bull.

Horner was the subject of an internal investigation by the wider Red Bull brand after accusations of alleged 'inappropriate behaviour' were levelled at him by a female employee, allegations he 'completely' denies and was cleared of any wrongdoing by the investigation.

This has led to rumours that Verstappen may be looking for a way out of his lengthy contract, with Mercedes reportedly sniffing around the 26-year-old's availability.

Red Bull are understood to have held 'clear-the-air' talks with key figures

Jos Verstappen and Christian Horner's relationship has taken a blow recently

Key Red Bull figures' futures in doubt

It has recently been reported that Verstappen has an exit clause in his Red Bull contract that allows him to leave if Marko does, while chief technical officer Newey's future has also been thrown up in the air by the Horner saga.

Former F1 race winner Gerhard Berger told F1 Insider that he believes the current situation will see Marko, Newey and Verstappen all leave while Horner, he believes, will retain his position.

Now, Marko has been reacting to the rumours, speaking to OE24 about Verstappen's apparent availability.

"I'll stick with my no comment here too. The fact is that there is a great deal of trust between Max and me.

“An interesting variant,” he concluded, speaking specifically about Berger's claims.

Red Bull Max Verstappen Formula 1 Christian Horner Adrian Newey Helmut Marko