Jun.4 (GMM) Dr Helmut Marko admits Max Verstappen deserved to be penalised for his highly-controversial and presumably deliberate crash into George Russell in Barcelona.
The quadruple world champion was unrepentant immediately after the incident, but on social media a day later he admitted it was “not right”. Red Bull boss Christian Horner also revealed that Verstappen, 27, had “apologised” to the team.
Appearing on Red Bull-owned broadcaster Servus TV, Verstappen’s mentor and Red Bull advisor Marko, 82, confirmed that the Dutchman “suddenly accelerated again” after slowing to let Russell pass.
“That was a serious misjudgement,” the Austrian said.
“He was already at loggerheads with Russell,” Marko explained. “With the incidents and bad decisions, Max’s emotions got the better of him.
“Sleeping on it certainly helped. When Max is in that mood, it’s better to leave him alone.”
As for whether Verstappen should have apologised, Marko answered: “He apologised later. And that was, of course, right.”
The FIA on Sunday immediately imposed a 10-second time penalty and added three points to Verstappen’s super license, moving him within a single point of a mandatory race ban.
Marko said the sanctions were “appropriate”.
He denied, however, that Verstappen is at actual risk of having to sit out a race. “It won’t happen that he behaves badly in Canada and then doesn’t start in Austria,” Marko insisted. “He’s a racer who knows where his limits are.”
Some think Verstappen was actually just as furious with Red Bull as he was with anyone else in Spain, having been fitted with hard tyres after the pitstop.
Pirelli’s Mario Isola, however, agreed with Red Bull that the old soft tyre – used by Verstappen in qualifying and his laps to the grid – was not an option.
“This is the set of tyres that has been the hardest hit in its previous life,” said the Italian.
Marko, though, admits that the team should have simply not pitted Verstappen.
“The only option left was the hard tyre,” he said, “but putting it on was a mistake. The alternative was to stay out.
“McLaren would have had us, but we could have kept (Charles) Leclerc behind us.”
Marko admits the even bigger problem is that McLaren is now racing away with the 2025 world championships.
“At the moment, Max doesn’t have a car with which he can become world champion,” he said. “He’s the only one who can handle that car at all.
“If everything goes well, we’ll be just as fast as McLaren – but that’s only every third or fourth race. McLaren are always there.
“We’re not giving up yet, but it will be difficult.”
Finally, Marko joined Horner in condemning the theory that Verstappen is deliberately sabotaging his chances in order to trigger a contract exit clause.
“There are the wildest theories,” he said. “And it’s not what Max wants. It’s absurd.
“If he wanted to, he could already do things completely differently.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2025 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas at the Circuit of the Americas - one of the world's finest racing circuits. This year's event features one of six Sprint races on the F1 schedule. Grand Prix Tours offers a fully appointed, personally tailored race experience for passionate enthusiasts at what has become a great American tradition and another anticipated sold-out event.
SHOW PACKAGES
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES