May 5 (GMM) Dr Helmut Marko is no longer so worried that Max Verstappen could walk away from Red Bull at the end of 2025.
Rumours are still rampant that amid ongoing performance and internal strife, and now a growing number of mistakes even in the pits, the quadruple world champion could jump ship just in time for the radical 2026 rules.
Mercedes was clearly interested in signing Verstappen last year, and now there are rumours of a standing $100 million per year offer from Aston Martin.
“I read that too,” Marko, Red Bull advisor, told Bild newspaper. “But I don’t think that matters much to Max. For one thing, he doesn’t earn too badly with us, and for another, he just wants to win.
“That’s why we have to provide him with the fastest car. And we’re working on that. We’ll be making upgrades to the car soon.”
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, however, said he “can’t imagine” that the Imola upgrade will close the gap substantially to McLaren, while team boss Christian Horner even denied that the upgrade is even substantial.
Marko, though, has been talking up the Imola upgrade for some time, seeming to imply that if it doesn’t work, Verstappen may edge towards the exit.
“I’m not thinking about that because I’m confident it will work as planned,” Marko, 82, insisted. “We’ve identified our problem areas and are working on solutions.”
Therefore, he rejects the suggestion that Red Bull is in “crisis”.
“That’s an overstatement,” said the Austrian. “We mustn’t forget that we are the only team besides McLaren to win a grand prix, and our form has improved somewhat recently. But we’re still not satisfied. Our ambitions are different.
“We want to win races and titles,” Marko added. “But that requires not only an exceptional driver, but also the fastest car. We don’t have that at the moment. But nothing’s lost yet. We still have every chance of winning both world championship titles.
“It would be disastrous if we gave up just because things aren’t going according to plan.”
However, Marko did declare recently that he is “very worried” ongoing stagnation at Red Bull could result in Verstappen, 27, jumping to a rival team.
“That’s true,” he confirmed, “but that worry has already shrunk.
“Max is loyal and he has subsequently committed publicly to Red Bull. And that fits with what I see in him now. He’s fully focused on his job here.
“That’s why I don’t think he’s even considering a change,” Marko said. “Quite the opposite. I’m convinced Max will continue to compete for Red Bull in 2026.”
He said he’s had multiple conversations with Verstappen about his expectations for 2025. “Everyone – including Max – agreed that defending the title is obviously the goal, but we can’t assume that we’ll succeed.
“We’ll do everything we can, but no one can expect us to win every time,” said Marko.
Verstappen, a brand new father to daughter Lily, confirmed that he is attacking the 2025 season in a way that is far less “emotional” than is being suggested in the media.
“Of course, the baby is an exception,” he smiled to Viaplay. “I’ve never been so nervous at resting heart rate. But the rest is just racing, and I’ve been doing it for so long that nothing can really shake me.
“I’ve been saying it for a long time – once you’ve fulfilled your dream of grand prix victories and title wins, you’re much more relaxed. Even if you have a bad day, it doesn’t really matter. It’s more about how you get things back on track – you just keep going and put it behind you.
“You become much calmer and focus on what lies ahead. That’s what I’m doing,” Verstappen insisted.
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
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES