Max Verstappen Prepares for Shock Red Bull Exit as Political Battle Over Helmut Marko Turns Ugly

The world of Formula 1 is one big power struggle. There is a power struggle on the track, among the teams, among the drivers, and even among the organizers. There is always a winner and a loser in these power struggles and we might just see one unfold in the Red Bull camp very soon. A rumor is floating around the Austrian team that puts Dr. Helmut Marko in a losing position. However, Max Verstappen made a recent admission, which has tipped the power dynamics in Marko’s favor.

The Dutchman has been with the Red Bull family since 2015, especially under Marko’s guidance. Verstappen has since been around Helmut Marko and vice versa. Over the years, the two have formed a bond that is paying dividends now (excuse the accounting pun). First, let us tell you what power struggle is Dr. Marko in the middle of and then how Verstappen is tipping the scales.

Max Verstappen gives the shocking verdict on his Red Bull future amidst Helmut Marko’s sacking

We all know how the Red Bull advisor is completely nonchalant and unapologetic. He often showcases this nature in his public statements. However, one such statement about Sergio Perez got the Austrian in trouble because of which even the fans demanded his resignation. This gave birth to the power struggle within the Red Bull camp, which hints at the possible sacking of Dr. Marko.

However, now Verstappen has weighed in on this conversation with his feelings toward Marko’s sacking. In short, Verstappen is not happy with this possibility. The Dutchman’s attachment to Marko is coming to light as he made a shocking admission regarding his future with the team to the bosses.

As per F1-insider as seen on X, Verstappen told Mintzlaff and the Thai boss that if Marko leaves, so will he. The Dutchman is contracted to Red Bull till 2028 and he plans to retire early from the sport. However, if Marko is sacked, Red Bull might have to face the unfavorable scenario earlier than expected.

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This definitely puts Red Bull in a tough position as they absolutely cannot afford to lose Verstappen. This power struggle between Christian Horner and Helmut Marko might end up costing the team dearly.

However, apart from Verstappen, the Austrian boss does not have a lot of supporters, quite the opposite in fact.

A former team manager brutally criticized Helmut Marko

The Austrian is infamous for his unforgiving and ruthless managerial approach. We have seen many drivers fall victim to it throughout his Red Bull tenure. Adding a stamp of approval to the previous statements, we have the comments of the former team manager Joan Villadelprat.

“Every time he opens his mouth, the only thing he’s doing is hammering,” he began in his exclusive with Planet F1. “I have worked with Marko, I’ve had five cars from him in junior categories, and I had Jaime Alguersuari and Brendon Hartley – Red Bull boys in my teams. I know the pressure that he puts on the young kids, he’s useless.”

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Absolutely brutal from the former manager. So as of right now, the only person on Marko’s side is Max Verstappen. However, in the end, the Dutchman might just be enough to save Marko.