Marko hints at removal of exit clause in Verstappen contract

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Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has opened up about the enduring and loyal relationship he shares with Max Verstappen.

The tight connection between the Austrian and the Verstappen camp has played a key role in the four-time world champion's rise to becoming one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history.

It also allegedly led to a clause being inserted into the Dutchman's contract with Red Bull that allowed the driver to leave the Milton Keynes-based outfit if Marko himself departed the team.

This detail, brought to light in early 2024 during a period of intense scrutiny surrounding team principal Christian Horner – who was later cleared of misconduct allegations – highlighted the unique dynamic between the Verstappen family and Marko.

A Relationship Built on Loyalty

The backdrop was the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, where speculation ran rife that Marko himself was under investigation for allegedly leaking information related to the Horner situation.

It was in this charged environment that Verstappen, fresh from securing pole position in Jeddah, delivered a powerful statement of support for Marko.

“I have a lot of respect for Helmut [Marko] and what we have achieved together, it goes very far,” Verstappen said.

“Of course, my loyalty to him is very big and I've always expressed this to everyone within the team, everyone high up, that he's an important part in my decision-making for all the time in the future as well as within the team .”

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Verstappen's backing came at a critical time, underscoring the trust and respect that have defined their relationship since the Dutchman's teenage years.

Marko, who was instrumental in bringing Verstappen into the Red Bull program at just 16-years-old, reciprocates that loyalty.

“I've known the Verstappens for quite some time now. And the Verstappens are special, that's clear,” Marko told Dutch daily De Telegraaf.

“And one thing is for sure: they are loyal. You can count on them.

“For me, of course, those words from Max were very nice. He is one of the greatest sportsmen in the world, earns a lot of money, but above all he sticks to his principles.

“That hasn't changed since he was fourteen years old.”

Removing the Clause for a Stronger Future

Marko revealed that the clause tying Verstappen's future to his own had been “changed or removed” following the controversy earlier in the year.

“The clause was changed or removed to lay a foundation for a successful company for the near future,” Marko revealed.

The adjustment means Verstappen's unwavering commitment to Red Bull, to which he is contracted until the end of 2028.

With a fourth world championship secured in 2024, Verstappen's loyalty to the team and its leadership remains a cornerstone of their ongoing success.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.