The Formula 1 world is in turmoil following recent comments from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko on persistent rumours linking Max Verstappen with a possible transfer. Meanwhile, the Austrian team is also facing growing discontent over new regulations imposed by the FIA, which could affect its dominance in the top category of motorsport.

Marko breaks silence on Verstappen

Rumours about Max Verstappen’s possible exit from Red Bull have been circulating for months, especially following internal tensions within the team and constant speculation about a tempting offer from Mercedes. However, Helmut Marko has been categorical in addressing the situation:

“There is no reason for Max to leave Red Bull. He has a contract until 2028 and is at the best team on the grid. Speculation is unfounded, although we know that rival teams will do everything they can to destabilise us ,” Marko told reporters.

Despite this blunt statement, rumours continue to grow, especially since Mercedes has yet to confirm a definitive replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2025. Toto Wolff, the head of the German team, has left open the possibility of signing Verstappen, which has generated uncertainty in the paddock.

Red Bull in conflict with FIA over front wing regulation

As Red Bull tries to calm the waters over its star driver, the team is also facing a technical issue that could affect its performance. The FIA ​​has tightened regulations on front wing flexibility, a decision that team boss Christian Horner says unfairly disadvantages his team.

“We were surprised by this decision. We have worked within the limits of the regulations, but now we are being asked to make a change that affects the balance of the car. This clearly favours some teams over others ,” said Horner with discontent.

The move is thought to reduce Red Bull’s aerodynamic advantage, which has been a pillar of its dominance in recent years. Rivals such as McLaren and Ferrari have welcomed the decision, arguing that it improves the fairness of the competition.

WRC drivers outraged by Fourmaux’s penalty

Outside Formula 1, another controversy is shaking up motorsport. Several drivers in the World Rally Championship (WRC) have expressed their discontent over the fine of 10,000 euros imposed on a competitor for having insulted Adrien Fourmaux during a recent race.

The incident, which occurred during a stage of the Swedish Rally, has sparked debate about the severity of sanctions in the sport. Some drivers believe the fine is excessive and that the FIA ​​should focus on other more important aspects, such as safety and a level playing field.

The WRC has been criticised for its handling of discipline, and the case has revived discussion about the need to review the sanctioning criteria in top-level motorsport.

Conclusion: A weekend of tension in motorsport

Formula 1 and the WRC are experiencing moments of high tension, with controversial decisions that could change the competitive landscape. While Marko tries to dispel rumours about Verstappen, Red Bull must deal with an increasingly strict FIA. At the same time, the world of rallying is also shaken by disciplinary decisions that generate debate among drivers and fans.

Motorsport never ceases to surprise, and with the season in full swing, it’s certain that these controversies still have a lot to play out.