Max Verstappen hinges his Red Bull future on presence of former LeMans 24 hours winner in an honest claim

Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, has put forth his "condition" to continue his stay with Red Bull Racing. In a recent interview, the Dutch driver confirmed that his future in F1 is attached to his sponsor and discoverer, Helmut Marko.

Verstappen was likely affected by an internal turmoil in Red Bull that exploded following team principal Christian Horner's case, where he was accused of conducting 'inappropriate behavior' with a female employee.

The team was reportedly divided into two groups, with senior advisor and former 24 Hours LeMans winner Helmut Marko and Horner on opposite sides. Marko sparked a controversy when he said that he fears getting sacked.

Upon hearing his comments, Verstappen gave a statement saying Marko's axing could have severe repercussions, indirectly hinting at his exit from the team. While Red Bull called a truce with Marko, Verstappen insisted that his condition to continue his stay with Red Bull would stay the same.

Speaking to Blick, the Dutch driver was asked if he is willing to change teams in the future. To this, he replied:

"Well, I am happy where I am. And one of my conditions is always the same: my discoverer and sponsor, Helmut (Marko), has to stay."

Marko played a huge role in identifying Verstappen's potential. He introduced him to Red Bull, and his guidance helped the Dutch driver unleash an extraordinary legacy in the sport.

Hence, the senior advisor holds a special place in the four-time world champion's life. Moreover, Verstappen has repeatedly said that he wants stability and uniformity within the team. If that is compromised, he could explore other options on the grid.

Following an internal crisis, Red Bull lost the Constructors Championship in the 2024 F1 season. However, the 27-year-old Dutchman defended his championship title for the fourth time in a row.

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Max Verstappen admits Horner's case impacted Red Bull in 2024

Max Verstappen with Christian Horner (Image Source: Getty)

In March 2024, Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing's team principal, was accused of behaving inappropriately with a female employee. The revelation caused major turmoil internally as the stakeholders arranged for an investigation. After weeks of contemplation, Horner was acquitted of all charges.

However, Max Verstappen believes that the case hurt everybody in the team. Speaking to Blick, he was asked:

"If you look back at the rocky start to the season with the unfortunate Horner affair, how did this hurt the team?"

To this, he replied:

"Of course, the matter was not pretty, but I would argue that with Didi Mateschitz, this case would have been resolved very quickly."

Red Bull had a difficult 2024 as they were outdone by McLaren. They won the constructors title, and Lando Norris advanced significantly in the championship race. However, Verstappen's talent and skillset won him his fourth title in a row.