Helmut Marko shares his thoughts on the rumors surrounding Max Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes.
Although much of the talk in the lead-up to F1’s summer break relates to Sergio Perez, Helmut Marko is well aware there’s still speculation about Max Verstappen but speculation is “all” it is.
Following on from Lewis Hamilton’s announcement he’s leaving Mercedes to Red Bull GMHb’s investigation into Christian Horner’s alleged inappropriate behaviour, Verstappen has found himself the subject of many a headline.
Helmut Marko: That’s all speculation
Verstappen, who is rumored to be dissatisfied with the behind-the-scenes politicking at Red Bull, has been the subject of public interest from Toto Wolff. Adding to the tension, Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, has called for Horner’s resignation. This pursuit by Wolff comes as he looks to find a suitable replacement for Hamilton.
At the Austrian Grand Prix weekend, the Dutchman seemingly put an end to any doubts by confirming that he would indeed continue as a Red Bull driver in 2025.
With Wolff’s uncertainty about his precise words and Mercedes securing victory in two consecutive races, the speculation of ‘Verstappen to Mercedes’ is once more grabbing attention in the headlines.
Marko claims it is merely speculation.
“If, if. That’s all speculation,” he told OE24.
“We refuse to comply with that; our main goal is to win the World Championship. Additionally, we are determined to help [Sergio] Perez regain his usual form.”
F1’s next stop: The Hungarian GP
Can Hamilton maintain his dominance in Hungary? Will this be Sergio Perez’s last chance? Five burning questions ahead of the Hungarian GP.
The Hungarian Grand Prix weather could pose as a formidable adversary for the Mercedes W15.
Verstappen is currently under contract with Red Bull until the conclusion of the 2028 championship. However, there are specific provisions in the agreement that grant the triple World Champion the option to terminate the contract if desired.
Marko has affirmed that Max’s contract includes clauses that allow him to depart from the team at any given time, provided certain conditions are met.
However, it is still unclear whether Mercedes’ speed will be enough to attract Verstappen’s attention towards those clauses.
Despite winning two consecutive races, Hungary will serve as the ultimate challenge for Mercedes to prove their improvements. So far, the W15 has struggled to perform at its best in hot conditions.
George Russell, despite emerging victorious in Austria, found himself trailing Red Bull and McLaren in the scorching race. However, the tables turned when Max Verstappen and Lando Norris collided.
“Typically, they have a hard time dealing with the heat,” Marko commented. “However, this season has been anything but normal. We are facing such unpredictable fluctuations that even we find ourselves confused at times.”
McLaren trails Red Bull by 71 points in the championship standings, while Mercedes lags behind by an additional 74 points.
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