Helmut Marko recently shared that Max Verstappen expressed sadness upon learning about Marko’s impending departure from the Red Bull team. Marko also indicated that Verstappen might consider leaving if the team fails to maintain a conducive and supportive environment for success.
After a remarkable two-decade tenure as an advisor and head of the junior driver program at Red Bull, the 82-year-old Marko is stepping down later this year. It was Marko who brought Verstappen into the Red Bull family, beating out competition from Mercedes for the talented young driver’s signature.
The bond between Marko and Verstappen has been notably strong. Verstappen publicly supported Marko during internal team turmoil last year, even suggesting he might leave if Marko were to depart, likening him to a second father.
In an interview with Austrian publication Kleine Zeitung, Marko recounted Verstappen’s reaction to the news, noting the shared memories of significant milestones in Verstappen’s career. Marko dismissed concerns about Verstappen leaving Red Bull, confirming that Verstappen respects his decision.
However, Marko emphasized that Red Bull must ensure a harmonious environment for Verstappen’s success, highlighting that the driver values a supportive setting. Marko clarified that if this condition is not met, Verstappen could potentially leave abruptly in the future.
Red Bull GmbH officially announced Marko’s decision to step down, portraying it as his choice. Reports suggest tensions had been escalating between Marko and Red Bull’s leadership, particularly due to public remarks by Marko that drew negative attention and signing a driver to their program without proper authorization.
Marko has refuted these claims, labeling them as baseless rumors primarily propagated by the British media.
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