Helmut Marko shared that Max Verstappen was disheartened by the news of Marko’s impending departure from Red Bull. Marko also stated that the four-time Formula 1 World champion would leave the team if they fail to uphold a conducive environment for his success.
The 82-year-old will be stepping down at the end of the year after serving as an advisor to the team for two decades, including overseeing their junior driver program. Marko was instrumental in bringing Verstappen to Red Bull, fending off competition from Mercedes.
Their bond was strong, evident during Red Bull’s internal challenges when Verstappen publicly supported Marko, even hinting at a possible departure if Marko left, referring to him as a mentor and ‘second father.’
In an interview with Austrian publication Kleine Zeitung, Marko shared Verstappen’s emotional reaction to his departure, reminiscing about their shared successes and moments of triumph. Marko assured that Verstappen has accepted his decision, dispelling concerns about the champion’s future with the team.
However, Marko emphasized that Red Bull must maintain a harmonious environment for Verstappen’s success, highlighting that the driver values such an atmosphere. Marko dismissed rumors of Verstappen’s potential departure but stressed the importance of meeting the driver’s requirements for a conducive working environment.
Red Bull GmbH’s official statement portrayed Marko’s departure as voluntary, yet reports suggest underlying tensions between Marko and Red Bull’s leadership. Allegations of Marko’s controversial remarks and unauthorized signings causing disruptions within the team have surfaced, despite Marko denying them as baseless rumors.
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