Marko convinced: 'Verstappen will be at Red Bull in 2026 with five titles'
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- Nicole Mulder
Helmut Marko is sure that Max Verstappen is not going anywhere. According to the top Red Bull adviser, Verstappen will still be driving for Red Bull Racing after next year. The Austrian believes that Verstappen will then be a five-time world champion.
In 2024, there was significant speculation surrounding the potential early departure of Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing. Rumours circulated about discussions between Verstappen's camp and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. However, the Dutch driver ultimately chose to stay with Red Bull, a team he views as a second family, reaffirming his commitment and loyalty to them.
Marko sees Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026
In 2025, it remains uncertain whether Red Bull can regain its dominant form after missing out on the constructors' title in the previous year. Verstappen has always stated that he will remain with the team as long as they provide him with a competitive car. However, if Red Bull is unable to deliver in 2025, it raises questions about his future. According to Helmut Marko, there is no reason for concern, and there are no performance clauses in Verstappen's contract that would compel him to leave if the car doesn't perform as expected.
"I don't comment on the content of the contract, but in any case, we are confident that we can provide Max with a good car. Our engineers have made good progress with the data. We are optimistic," Marko told Sport Bild.
When asked about Mercedes' interest, which Wolff made no secret of after Lewis Hamilton's announced departure, the 81-year-old Austrian stated: "That's all well and good, but Max has a contract with us until the end of 2028." He is confident Verstappen will remain loyal to the team he has been driving for since 2016. "Especially because I know how loyal and grateful he is to Red Bull. That is why he will also be a Red Bull driver in 2026, and as a five-time world champion," Marko concludes.
This article was written in collaboration with Toby Nixon
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