Marko: Verstappen ‘free to talk’, but bound until 2028

©RedBull

40

Amid growing speculation over Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull Racing, Helmut Marko has responded with a measured but firm reminder: the reigning world champion is contractually committed until the end of 2028 - but free to talk to whomever he likes.

The comments come in the wake of reports that Verstappen, who has won four consecutive Formula 1 titles with Red Bull, recently met with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff in Sardinia following the British Grand Prix.

Though the meeting has not been officially confirmed, the rumor mill has been in overdrive as Red Bull continues to face internal and external pressure during a season that’s seen the gap to rivals narrow.

“We Have a Valid Contract”

Speaking to Austrian outlet OE24, Marko was candid when asked about the rumored talks between Verstappen and Mercedes.

"Max can meet with who ever he wants," he said, brushing aside concerns that the meeting may indicate dissatisfaction behind the scenes.

Pressed on whether the discussions were cause for concern, Marko pointed to the Dutchman’s long-term commitment to the Milton Keynes-based team.

"We have a valid contract [until 2028] and we assume Max will stay with us," he stated.

Verstappen signed an extension with Red Bull in 2022 that theoretically keeps him with the team through the end of the 2028 season, but it’s been noted – indeed by Marko himself – that a performance clause could ‘conditionally’ allow him to leave the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

Red Bull Turmoil Adds Fuel to Fire

Beyond performance on the track, Red Bull has been dealing with internal tension. Reports have suggested that Verstappen’s management, including his father Jos Verstappen, may have influenced Red Bull’s bombshell decision earlier this month to fire Christian Horner from his long-standing role as team principal and CEO.

Read also:

Steiner: ‘Very wise’ Verstappen won’t gamble on team switch

Officially, no reason for Horner’s dismissal has been disclosed by the energy drink company. And Marko was tight-lipped when asked about whether he had discussed the situation with Max.

"Max was informed, I don't want to say anything more about that," he said.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook

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.