Red Bull Senior Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko has recently expressed significant concerns over Max Verstappen’s future with the team amidst the current struggles of Red Bull’s 2025 Formula 1 campaign. Following a disappointing sixth place for Verstappen at the Bahrain Grand Prix and the team’s general performance issues, Marko openly admitted on Sky Germany that there is “major concern” regarding Verstappen’s continued tenure at Red Bull unless the team can provide a more competitive car capable of winning races again .
Marko stressed that improvements must come soon to give Verstappen a car that can challenge for the world championship. He emphasized the need to create a solid foundation with a car that will allow Verstappen to be a title contender. The advisor’s comments came amid growing speculation about Verstappen’s future, fueled by Red Bull’s slump in form and Verstappen’s contract containing performance-based exit clauses that could allow him to leave the team before its 2028 expiration if certain competitive conditions are not met .
Despite these concerns, Marko later softened his stance, stating that as long as Red Bull delivers a top-of-the-line car, Verstappen will remain with the team. He acknowledged the difficulties ahead over the next two race weekends, stressing that the clock is ticking for Red Bull to ensure Verstappen remains in the title fight and therefore with the team. Marko reiterated that Verstappen’s primary focus is the world championship, and if Red Bull can provide the necessary machinery, any talk of a move would be moot .
Max Verstappen himself responded to Marko’s comments during the drivers’ press conference ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Verstappen expressed confusion over concerns about his future, stating that he is completely focused on improving the car and does not entertain thoughts of leaving Red Bull. He described the Bahrain weekend as disappointing, but said that the team is continually working on new ideas to improve the car’s performance. Verstappen emphasized his commitment to the team and his relaxed state of mind, focusing solely on driving and improving the situation rather than speculating about his future .
The current season has been challenging for Verstappen and Red Bull, with McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri leading the drivers’ championship and having won three of the first four races. Verstappen has managed just one win so far, at the Japanese Grand Prix, which was widely praised for his exceptional performance. Red Bull’s RB21 car has displayed issues with tire balance and overheating, contributing to inconsistent results and prompting internal crisis talk within the team .
In short, while Helmut Marko has expressed serious concerns about Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull due to the team’s recent poor form, both Marko and Verstappen have indicated that these concerns are dependent on the team’s ability to quickly improve its car. Verstappen remains under contract until 2028, but with performance clauses adding pressure on Red Bull to deliver a championship-winning car. Verstappen’s focus remains on working with the team to improve the car and maintain competitiveness in the 2025 season .
