Max Verstappen, Helmut Marko, and Christian Horner engage in a conversation.
The ‘Helmut Marko clause’ in Max Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull could be used as a tactic to leave the team, according to a report.
Recently, the speculation surrounding the Dutch driver’s future at Red Bull has been dominated by the question of whether he will stay or leave. It is possible that Helmut Marko, too, might have a role in determining the final decision.
Helmut Marko clause could be used as Max Verstappen exit tactic
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull runs until the conclusion of 2028, however, his future with the team based in Milton Keynes appears to be less certain in current times compared to previous years.
The current statement from the Dutch driver indicates that he is committed to Red Bull for the time being. However, his father, Jos, has suggested in a recent interview with RaceXpress that it is also important for his son to consider the future of Formula 1 beyond 2026, when the regulations are set to undergo changes.
Verstappen stated, as quoted by RacingNews365.nl, that while many may desire him, he believes Max is the suitable choice at the present time.
Despite his possession of a speedy car, we must consider the future up until 2026. Therefore, we are currently adopting a passive approach and allowing events to unfold naturally. We remain composed, patiently awaiting the outcome.
Following the conclusion of F1 2025, significant changes are made to both chassis and engine regulations, ushering in a fresh appearance for the sport. It is uncertain whether Red Bull will continue to dominate the world of Formula 1.
The establishment of the new Red Bull Powertrains division is poised to transform Red Bull into an independent engine manufacturer. However, it is undeniable that the team will encounter a formidable obstacle in the form of limited expertise in engine building, especially when compared to well-established manufacturers such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda.
In addition to concerns, Red Bull is now confronted with the upcoming regulation cycle without the guidance of design chief Adrian Newey. The chief technical officer of the Red Bull Technology Group recently announced his departure from Milton Keynes by mid-2025.
Verstappen recently expressed his preference for Newey to stay with Red Bull during his time in Miami. Although he has not explicitly stated any plans to leave the team, he has not definitively ruled out the possibility of departing before his current contract expires.
Verstappen might have the opportunity to terminate his contract due to a provision known as the ‘Helmut Marko clause,’ which was allegedly added to his agreement without Christian Horner’s awareness. Marko, acting as a Red Bull director, included this clause. This information was mentioned in a report by the BBC.
If Marko is no longer part of Red Bull, Verstappen has the option to leave the team. Verstappen had previously expressed his opinion on Marko’s ongoing role, suggesting that Marko’s potential suspension from Red Bull seemed likely earlier this season.
Andrew Benson reports that Marko has assured Verstappen that he will support his desires entirely. This implies that if Verstappen wishes to depart from Red Bull, Marko can facilitate this by resigning from the team, thereby activating Verstappen’s exit clause.
If this were to happen, Verstappen would also leave Red Bull, just like Newey, and search for a different challenge in another team.
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Why is there uncertainty over Max Verstappen’s Red Bull future?
Newey acknowledged that the off-track controversies surrounding the team this year, along with his contemplation over the past two years since the introduction of the current regulations, ultimately led to his departure from Red Bull. With these factors in mind, the 65-year-old made the decision to end his time at Red Bull.
The team’s current state of turmoil can be traced back to January, when Red Bull GmbH acknowledged an ongoing internal investigation into Christian Horner following allegations made by an employee regarding his behavior.
Verstappen’s father Jos made a public appeal for the resignation of the team principal, Horner, following the Bahrain Grand Prix, stating that Horner was causing the issues and behaving as a victim despite the investigation being dismissed in February.
Verstappen Sr asserted that if Horner, who has been the team’s leader since its debut in 2005, continues to hold his position, Red Bull could face a potential “explosion.”
Despite the continued support of both Austrian and Thai shareholders, Horner has managed to restore a significant degree of peace. However, the consequences of the situation have not entirely dissipated.
Verstappen’s potential departure is still a possibility due to lingering doubts about the team’s long-term competitiveness, despite the subsiding aftermath of the recent turmoil.
Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff expressed unwavering confidence in the loyalty of the Dutch driver.
“He’s a thoroughbred racer with an unwavering desire to emerge victorious in every race, qualifying round, and training session,” he stated.
“We are united by this shared bond, embedded in both his and our DNA. Together, we have cultivated an exceptional environment where he thrives, allowing us to craft the finest Formula 1 car.”
Max remains committed to fulfilling his long-term contract here and has not expressed any intention of not completing it.
I have absolutely no concerns about his potential relocation. Right now, we simply need things to settle down once more. That’s Max’s preference, and it aligns with our desires as well. It’s crucial for long-term success in sports, be it football or Formula 1, to have that calmness.
Mintzlaff stated that as Verstappen and Red Bull maintain their dominance in F1, aiming for a fourth consecutive World Championship victory, he fails to perceive any motive for Verstappen to contemplate departing the team and joining a competitor.
He reiterated, “Like I mentioned earlier, Max desires the speediest vehicle, and we possess just that.”
Max is a loyal guy who aspires to become the World Champion, and we believe that he has the highest probability of achieving this goal with our support.
He is aware that Christian and Helmut have consistently placed their trust in him, and he deeply values that. Additionally, he finds great alignment with the exceptional Red Bull brand, making it even more compelling for him to remain associated with it. Hence, there exist numerous compelling factors for him to continue his affiliation.
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