Former Red Bull Racing consultant Helmut Marko stated that Max Verstappen has reached a level of maturity and leadership that makes him independent within the team. In an interview with the German channel Sport1, the 82-year-old former executive stated that the four-time Formula 1 champion does not need any guidance.
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“Max has become a leader to such an extent that he no longer needs advice; he practically runs the team,” Marko stated.
The former consultant also commented on the team’s current situation following the dismissal of former team principal Christian Horner. According to him, the structure remains solid: “The team has developed very well after Horner’s departure. I see that everything is in good hands and I’m even starting to like the idea of not having to fly to Australia.”
Even away from the paddock, Marko guaranteed that he will continue to follow Formula 1 closely: “I am organizing my way of watching on TV to have all the information I am used to, because without sector times and things like that, it is difficult to analyze,” he said, also highlighting the personal phase the Dutch driver is going through: “Max is now a father, has cats and dogs, a balanced life, and is clearly one of the greats of motorsport, if not the greatest.”
For Marko, Verstappen’s development is so complete that any attempt at additional advice would be unnecessary: “He has evolved to a point where he no longer needs guidance. It would be presumptuous of me to add anything. In that sense, it is a good solution,” he added.
Regarding the future, Marko dismissed speculations that the new technical rules could drive the Dutchman away from Formula 1: “For Max, it’s not over yet. I don’t see an end to his skills, his incredible driving ability, and his technical intuition. If the right car is available, he will win several more world titles,” the former executive concluded.
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