The three-time reigning world champion has cast doubt on his future as adviser Helmut Marko faces a team investigation
Max Verstappen will not quit Red Bull, according to the team’s CEO, Oliver Mintzlaff.
Verstappen put doubt on his future when he stated that he will leave the world champions if motorsport adviser Helmut Marko is thrown out.
Marko, an 80-year-old Austrian who played an important role in Verstappen’s career, is the subject of a Red Bull investigation following the investigation into charges of “inappropriate behaviour” against Christian Horner.
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull expires in 2028, and when asked ahead of Saturday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix if the Dutch driver will stay with the team, Mintzlaff responded, “Of course. He has a contract. Max is an excellent driver, and hopefully we will win tonight. I’m just here to race. “That’s it.”
Horner’s female accuser was suspended earlier this week as a result of the Red Bull investigation, which cleared the 50-year-old team principal.
Marko is employed by Red Bull GmbH, the F1 team’s parent company.
When asked if he will be suspended after the race in Jeddah, he told Austrian TV ORF on Friday night: “Ultimately, I’ll decide for myself what I do. “The theoretical possibility is always present.”
My loyalty to him is very big and he is an important part in my decision-making for the future. It is very important that he stays.
However, in a new twist, Marko stated before to Saturday’s race that he is optimistic he would be in Australia for the season’s next round on March 24.
“The conversation with Mintzalff was very good,” stated Marko. “I think everything is apparent. I won’t be suspended. Our goal is to win the World Championship. That will require a lot of effort.”
Red Bull Racing has been sought for comment.
“I have a lot of respect for Helmut, and what we’ve accomplished together,” Verstappen said after putting his Red Bull on pole for Saturday’s race.
“It extends pretty far. My allegiance to him is strong, and I have always made it clear to everyone on the team, even the top management, that he plays an essential role in my future decisions.
“It is crucial that he stays. I believe that if such a crucial pillar falls away, as I have informed the team, it will have a negative impact on my condition.
“Helmut formed this team with (Red Bull’s late owner and founder) Dietrich (Mateschitz) from the beginning, and he’s always been tremendously dedicated to the team.
“It is very important that you give the man a lot of respect for what he has done, and that comes back to loyalty and integrity, so it is important that he stays.”
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