Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko signals talks with Verstappen, casts doubt on Pérez’s future – As Red Bull Racing celebrates Max Verstappen’s third consecutive Drivers’ Championship, the focus now shifts to the remaining battles of the Formula One season.
With the Constructors’ title still mathematically within their grasp and questions swirling around Sergio Pérez’s future, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has made headlines with his candid comments. The 81-year-old advisor gave insight into the team’s priorities, including upcoming discussions with Verstappen and the implications for Pérez.
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Verstappen’s win: A milestone amid challenges
Max Verstappen clinched his latest championship title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, the culmination of a dominant season that has seen him rewrite the Formula One history books. But the work is far from over for Red Bull Racing. The reigning Constructors’ Champions are third in the 2024 standings with 555 points.
McLaren lead the way with 608 points and Ferrari follow on 584. With 103 points available from the final two Grands Prix and the sprint race, Red Bull are clinging on to hope for a dramatic turnaround.
But while Verstappen has been consistent, Sergio Pérez’s struggles have hampered the team’s quest for the Constructors’ Championship. The Mexican has been in poor form for weeks, scoring minimal points and drawing criticism for his performances.
Pérez’s future in doubt
The pressure is mounting on Sergio Pérez. Rumours have been circulating for months that Red Bull are unhappy with his performance. Although Pérez is contracted until the end of 2026, his recent results have fuelled speculation about a possible exit as early as 2025.
When asked about Pérez’s future, Marko’s comments did little to quell the rumours.
Speaking to Austrian outlet *oe24.at*, Marko hinted that a decision would be made after the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
“It will be decided after the final in Abu Dhabi,” he said, before adding a cryptic observation: “Checo is acting like he is going to drive for us for another year.”
Marko’s comments suggest that Pérez’s future with the team is far from certain, despite the rider’s insistence that he will fulfil his contract.
In recent weeks, Pérez has repeatedly reiterated his commitment to Red Bull and dismissed speculation of an early exit.
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Pérez’s contract and challenges
Pérez’s future depends on more than just his contract. Performance is paramount at Red Bull, where the team demands excellence to maintain its dominance.
Pérez’s inconsistency, especially when compared to Verstappen’s near flawless form, has been a source of frustration.
Throughout the season, Pérez has failed to score the kind of points expected of a driver in one of the fastest cars on the grid. His struggles to adapt to the unique characteristics of the RB20, coupled with mistakes in qualifying and race pace, have left Red Bull vulnerable in the Constructors’ Championship.
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Verstappen: The indispensable driver
While Pérez’s seat hangs in the balance, there’s no doubting Max Verstappen’s position at Red Bull. The Dutch superstar, now a three-time world champion, remains the cornerstone of the team’s success. However, Verstappen’s dominance has also attracted the interest of rival teams, including Mercedes, who have reportedly been courting him throughout the season.
Marko confirmed that Verstappen’s future at Red Bull remains a priority. Although the advisor did not reveal details of any formal offers from other teams, he did insist that Verstappen is an integral part of Red Bull’s plans for 2025 and beyond.
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Upcoming talks with Verstappen
Marko revealed that discussions with Verstappen about his long-term future are imminent. “We didn’t have a moment’s peace in Las Vegas,” admitted Marko, referring to the chaos of the Grand Prix weekend. However, he was confident of finding time to talk in a more relaxed environment.
“In the next few days we will have a quiet meal in Dubai,” Marko revealed. That meeting is likely to focus on Red Bull’s vision for the future and their plans to provide Verstappen with a car capable of sustaining his dominance.
Marko reiterated his belief in Verstappen’s abilities, noting that the driver’s success is linked to the team’s ability to deliver a competitive car.
“We just have to give him the right car and Max will do it. A car that is not as temperamental as the current one, that is consistently at the front,” said Marko.
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Red Bull’s Constructors’ title ambitions
Beyond the internal dynamics of its driver line-up, Red Bull Racing remains focused on finishing the season on a high note. While the Constructors’ Championship may seem like a long shot, the team is determined to go all the way.
If Red Bull are to regain the top spot, they will need to perform flawlessly in the remaining Grands Prix. Verstappen’s reliability is a given, but Pérez’s role will be crucial. The Mexican must find his form if Red Bull are to mount a serious challenge to McLaren and Ferrari.
The Constructors’ Championship also highlights the fierce competition in 2024, with McLaren emerging as a dominant force and Ferrari showing renewed consistency. Red Bull’s ability to adapt and capitalise on their opportunities will determine whether they can mount a late comeback.
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What lies ahead for Red Bull
As the Formula One season draws to a close, Red Bull Racing faces critical decisions that will shape its future. Marko’s comments underline the delicate balance the team must strike between maintaining its competitive edge and addressing internal challenges.
For Max Verstappen, the immediate priority is to secure a car that suits his driving style and ensures his reign continues into 2025. Sergio Pérez, meanwhile, faces an uncertain off-season with his future at Red Bull hanging in the balance.
Whatever the outcome of the final races, the Red Bull story will remain at the heart of the F1 narrative, with its star driver and team dynamics continuing to captivate fans and analysts alike.
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With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
Who wrote this article ?? I thought you guys were supposed to be in the know when it comes to formula 1 .. yet you keep stating that Max has just won his 3rd championship.
He’s won 4 times !!!