BREAKING:Helmut Marko Hints at F1 Retirement, Max Verstappen’s Future Key to His…read more
BREAKING:Helmut Marko Hints at F1 Retirement, Max Verstappen’s Future Key to His…read more
Helmut Marko, a pivotal figure in Red Bull Racing’s rise to dominance in Formula 1, has suggested that his future in the sport may be closely linked to that of Max Verstappen. The 81-year-old Austrian, who has overseen the team’s driver development program for years, was instrumental in the rise of stars such as Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, and Verstappen.
Marko, who has been an advisor to both of Red Bull’s F1 teams since 2005, recently found himself under scrutiny after making the controversial decision to replace Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda. Lawson, 23, had only been given two Grand Prix races after temporarily filling in for Sergio Perez in the 2025 season.
However, it is Verstappen’s future that now seems to be the most pressing concern for both Marko and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. The Dutch driver, who has dominated the F1 landscape with four consecutive championships, is facing challenges this season. Verstappen’s failure to win in Australia and China, coupled with difficulties driving the RB21 car, has raised questions about Red Bull’s competitiveness. The team also appears to be trailing behind McLaren, the reigning Constructors’ champions.
Although Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until 2028, reports indicate that a release clause in his contract would allow him to leave the team if they fail to provide him with a race-winning car. This has sparked rumors of a potential move, with even rival team Mercedes said to be monitoring the situation closely.
In a candid statement, Marko acknowledged that he might consider stepping away from the sport if Verstappen were to leave. When asked if he would retire once Verstappen was no longer driving for Red Bull, Marko told motorsport.com, “That could be a good reason, yes.”
As the future of both Verstappen and Marko remains uncertain, all eyes will be on Red Bull in the coming months to see how the situation unfolds.
