Marko Admits Red Bull Could Struggle to Keep Verstappen Due to…read more
Shanghai, China Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has acknowledged that Max Verstappen’s contract includes “performance clauses,” admitting the team may find it difficult to retain him if they fail to provide a competitive car. This revelation has further fueled speculation about the reigning world champion’s future.
Verstappen has dominated Formula 1 in recent years, securing four consecutive titles. However, uncertainty surrounding his long-term commitment to Red Bull has persisted, especially after off-track controversies involving team principal Christian Horner.
Mercedes and Aston Martin in the Race for Verstappen
With Lewis Hamilton set to move to Ferrari in 2026, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has made no secret of his desire to bring Verstappen on board. Meanwhile, Aston Martin reportedly considered making a massive £1 billion bid to sign him.
Despite the rumors, Verstappen has maintained that he is content at Red Bull as long as they provide him with a race-winning car. However, since mid-2024, Red Bull’s dominance has waned, and McLaren has emerged as the team to beat at the start of the 2025 season.
Marko: “It Won’t Be Easy”
During the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, Marko responded to McLaren CEO Zak Brown’s claim that Verstappen could leave for Mercedes at the end of the year.
“Max wants to be in a car that can consistently win,” Marko told Sky Germany. “His contract includes performance clauses, and if we can’t meet those expectations, keeping him will be tough. But it’s only the second race of the season, so the situation isn’t as bleak as Zak [Brown] suggests.”
Horner Dismisses Remarks
Christian Horner quickly refuted Brown’s statements, even suggesting that McLaren had reached out to Verstappen’s camp before extending Oscar Piastri’s contract.
“I heard he contacted one of our drivers last week,” Horner said. “If you’re satisfied with your own lineup, why make that call?
“Honestly, it’s just noise. We’re not paying much attention to it. Our focus is on doing our job.”
With Red Bull now facing stiff competition from McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari, the pressure is on to deliver a car capable of keeping Verstappen at the top. If they fail, the performance clauses in his contract could open the door for a dramatic move to a rival team
