Helmut Marko spoke for the first time about the meeting he had with Jos Verstappen and Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen’s father and manager, respectively. The former Red Bull Racing consultant, however, avoided commenting on the content of the conversation, keeping the mystery about the future of the four-time world champion in Formula 1.
Read more F1: Leclerc remains cautious even after returning to win with Ferrari
A photograph released last week showed Marko meeting with Jos and Vermeulen on a terrace in Amsterdam. The image fueled speculation that the parties were discussing the next steps in Max’s career, who has not yet publicly decided whether he will continue with Red Bull in the coming seasons.
After returning to Austria, Marko was sought by media outlets to comment on the trip. In response to GPblog, the Austrian was direct even before any question was asked: “My visit was private, if that’s what you want to ask.”
When asked about Verstappen’s future, Marko also preferred not to go into details. Faced with the possibility that the driver is evaluating alternatives for 2027, he limited himself to answering: “I have no idea. I’m no longer in charge,” he said.
Read more F1: McLaren CEO responds to what the team can offer Verstappen
The former executive adopted the same stance when asked about Red Bull’s sporting situation. Unlike statements made weeks ago, when he showed confidence in a team recovery, this time he avoided any analysis and stated: “That’s not my business either. You need to ask Laurent (Mekies, Red Bull chief),” he added.
The change in stance drew attention because Marko has always been known for speaking openly about the team’s backstage and about Verstappen, with whom he maintains a close relationship. Now, amid uncertainties about the Dutch driver’s future and the delicate moment experienced by Red Bull, the Austrian prefers to keep a distance from public discussions.
Marko also confirmed that he does not intend to return to the Formula 1 paddock this season: “I will not attend any GP this year,” he stated categorically to GPblog. If he maintains this decision, he will not closely follow the rest of Verstappen’s campaign, who may be competing in his last season for Red Bull, according to the speculations surrounding his future.
Read more F1: FIA extends engine flexibility until the end of 2028
