Max Verstappen names ONE THING keeping him at Red Bull

Verstappen wearing a cool suit — Photo: © IMAGO

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Verstappen names ONE THING keeping him at Red Bull

Max Verstappen has discussed whether he would move away from Red Bull

Originally written by Sheona Mountford. This version is a translation.

Tuesday 7 January 2025 21:00

Max Verstappen has drawn a firm line on his future with Red Bull, warning that a single personnel change could see him leave the team.

The Dutchman won a fourth consecutive drivers' title last year, but had to deal with rumors of a shock exit all season as the team's pace advantage shrunk and a number of key team members departed.

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Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull terminates in 2028, however if he does not receive a championship winning car when the regulations change in 2026, he could contemplate a team switch.

In 2024 Mercedes arose as a potential seat for Verstappen following Toto Wolff’s interest in the champion, with a move to Aston Martin also emerging as a possibility.

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Despite their performance woes in 2024, Verstappen still secured the drivers’ title with races to spare, but it is not just the ability to win titles that will dictate his move to a rival team according to the champion.

Verstappen has named Red Bull chief Helmut Marko as an integral part of his decision making in regards to switching F1 teams.

Helmut Marko is named as the main person keeping Max Verstappen at Red Bull

When asked in an interview with Blick about the repeated team move rumours, the champion revealed that the main condition keeping him at Red Bull is Marko's presence.

“Well, I am happy where I am. And one of my conditions is always the same: my discoverer and sponsor Helmut [Marko] has to stay,” Verstappen said.

Red Bull Max Verstappen Mercedes Aston Martin Toto Wolff Helmut Marko