Max Verstappen revealed that, despite Helmut Marko’s departure from Red Bull Racing, he remains in contact with the team’s former consultant. Marko left his role in December 2025, after more than twenty years in the paddock, marking the end of a long-standing partnership with Verstappen, who began his Formula 1 journey in 2015 with Toro Rosso, now Racing Bulls.
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Although Verstappen feels Marko’s absence in the team garage, the Dutch driver acknowledged the importance of the relationship he built with the Austrian: “I shared many moments with him, so, of course, it will be a bit different in the garage,” commented the four-time champion at the press conference this Thursday in Australia. However, he made a point of emphasizing that, although the dynamics in the work environment have changed, the two still maintain good communication off the track.
In a relaxed tone, Verstappen joked about the absence of Marko’s typical jokes, but highlighted that the bond between them remains strong: “Maybe there will be a smaller number of Helmut’s Austrian jokes, but I’m in contact with him anyway. Maybe not about the details of the car, but more about life,” Verstappen concluded smiling.
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Despite the change in the team, Verstappen remains focused on the team’s performance and the challenges of 2026, but also recognizes the impact of the friendship and relationship built with Marko over the years. The former consultant’s absence will be felt, but the Dutchman seems ready to move forward and continue his journey at Red Bull Racing.
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