Last Updated on May 6 2025, 4:34 pm
Just a few weeks ago there was an air of unease around Red Bull Racing. After a lacklustre performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, concerns within the team – and in particular long-time advisor Dr Helmut Marko – reached the point where even Max Verstappen’s future was being questioned. For the first time in years, the four-time Formula One World Champion’s commitment to Red Bull was not taken for granted. Now the mood seems to be changing.
In the aftermath of the Miami Grand Prix, where Verstappen finished fourth and saw his rivals close the gap, Dr Helmut Marko offered a far more measured and upbeat assessment of the Dutchman’s future with the team. In a candid interview with German newspaper Bild, Marko revealed that his previously vocal concerns over Verstappen’s departure have “diminished”.
Change of tune after Miami
Verstappen, now 27, remains “completely focused” on his work at Red Bull, Marko said. “Max is loyal and has publicly committed himself to Red Bull. That fits the way I see him at the moment. He is not distracted. He is committed, motivated and working towards our common goals.
It’s a remarkable turnaround from the warning signs Marko was sounding just a month ago. Back then, he was openly concerned about the risk of Verstappen being lured away – either by a more competitive car, greater internal stability, or both. However, following his recent interactions with the reigning champion, Marko believes that an exit is not on Verstappen’s radar: “I don’t think he’s even thinking about a change,” he said.
Eyes on 2026
Marko’s confidence extends beyond the remainder of this season. When asked if Verstappen would be with the team beyond the upcoming regulations change in 2026, the Austrian didn’t hesitate. “I am convinced that Max will still be racing for Red Bull in 2026,” he said. That belief is significant, especially given the performance clause in Verstappen’s contract, which could allow him to explore opportunities elsewhere if Red Bull fails to remain competitive.
While Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull has been verbally reaffirmed, Marko knows that words alone are not enough. “We all agreed before the season that the goal is to defend the title. But that doesn’t mean we assume it will happen automatically. We have to work for every point. Winning every race is not realistic, but getting the maximum out of every weekend is our responsibility.
Money not a motivator for Verstappen
Among the swirling rumours surrounding Verstappen’s future is speculation of a massive financial offer from Aston Martin – reportedly in excess of €100 million per season. However, Marko believes that it is not the figures that are driving Verstappen’s decision.
“I’ve read the stories,” he admitted. “But I don’t think money is a big factor for Max. First of all, he already earns very well with us. But more importantly, he just wants to win. That’s what motivates him. If we give him a car that can win, he will stay. That’s the simple truth.
This perspective is in line with Verstappen’s public image and past statements, in which he has routinely emphasised his passion for racing and winning over financial rewards or prestige. The Dutchman has never seemed particularly swayed by commercial opportunities or media fame. His focus has always been on performance – and Red Bull knows it has to deliver.
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Uncertainty still lingers
Despite Marko’s softened tone, the reality remains that Verstappen’s future is not set in stone. In an exclusive interview with RTL/ntv and sport.de in early April, Marko confirmed the existence of a performance clause in Verstappen’s long-term contract. If Red Bull’s form drops significantly or becomes inconsistent, the clause could be activated – opening the door to a move elsewhere.
“If we don’t give him the right car, he’ll just look for ways to get it,” Marko said at the time, laying the stakes bare. The clause, while common in contracts with elite athletes, is a significant bargaining chip for Verstappen and a constant pressure point for Red Bull’s technical team.
Imola upgrades: A new hope
With the next round of the championship fast approaching, Red Bull are working overtime to ensure Verstappen has the tools to return to the top step of the podium. The Imola Grand Prix, which takes place on 18 May, will see Red Bull make a number of key improvements to their 2025 challenger.
Helmut Marko confirmed the development, saying the team is keen to regain momentum and give Verstappen a car that is more capable of consistently challenging for wins. While he didn’t reveal any specific details about the upgrades, it’s widely expected that Red Bull will focus on aerodynamic efficiency and mechanical grip – two areas where McLaren and Ferrari have recently closed the gap.
Red Bull’s pace advantage of previous seasons is increasingly under threat. McLaren, in particular, have surged forward since the second half of last year, culminating in their first Constructors’ Championship since 2008. Ferrari have also shown signs of life with the SF-25, and Mercedes – while still lagging behind – continue to make incremental improvements. Red Bull can no longer afford to rest on their laurels.
The bigger picture
While Verstappen’s loyalty has once again been underlined by both himself and Red Bull’s management, the team is taking nothing for granted. The 2025 F1 grid is tighter than ever and the margin for error is minimal. With performance parity on the rise and the new 2026 regulations on the horizon, every race, every upgrade and every strategic decision carries extra weight.
Marko’s recent comments suggest a man walking a tightrope, balancing genuine optimism with a recognition of reality. Red Bull has weathered the storm of uncertainty at the start of the season, but the pressure is far from over. Keeping Verstappen happy means more than words of support or gestures of goodwill. It means delivering a car that can win, time and time again.
In that respect, the next few weeks could prove crucial. If the Imola improvements are successful and Verstappen returns to the front of the pack, Marko’s confidence will look prescient. But if the gap to McLaren and Ferrari widens, Red Bull could once again find themselves staring into the unknown – and wondering just how long the sport’s most dominant driver of the last five years will stick around.
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