F1 News: Red Bull chief refuses to rule out Verstappen exit amid Mercedes links

Dr. Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen — Photo: © IMAGO

Red Bull

Red Bull chief refuses to rule out Verstappen exit amid Mercedes links

Helmut Marko has revealed where he thinks the Dutchman will be in the future

By Sheona Mountford.

Monday 13 May 2024 17:00

Red Bull director Helmut Marko has offered a key update concerning Max Verstappen’s future at the team.

It has been a turbulent year for the Austrian team, following allegations of ‘inappropriate behaviour’ directed at team principal Christian Horner which he has since been cleared of.

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They also recently announced their chief technical director Adrian Newey would be leaving the team in 2025.

Whilst the exact reason for his departure remains unknown, it has been suggested he has grown unsettled by the internal power struggle within Red Bull.

Adrian Newey will leave Red Bull in 2025

There has been reports of an internal power struggle within Red Bull

Could Verstappen leave Red Bull?

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed his desire to see the Dutch champion at the team, after Lewis Hamilton announced he would be leaving for Ferrari in 2025.

The Austrian has also been seen talking to Helmut Marko and Verstappen’s father Jos in the paddock so far this season.

Mercedes have reportedly prepared a lucrative salary for the champion, but Verstappen hasn’t revealed any intention to move to the German team.

Helmut Marko has provided an update about where Verstappen will end up racing when speaking to Sky Germany.

Helmut Marko discusses Verstappen's future

“Max will definitely make a decision based on who gives him the best possible technical package,” he said.

“That is certainly Red Bull at the moment. Since there are no rule changes for next year, I am convinced that we will maintain our lead next year too.

“What happens after will then be decided individually.”

Red Bull Max Verstappen Lewis Hamilton Ferrari Mercedes Christian Horner