F1 News: After Poaching Lewis Hamilton, $2.6Bn Worth John Elkaan Spotted at Christian Horner & Co’s Booth

The 2024 pre-season was a chaotic period in the world of Formula 1. First, Lewis Hamilton shocked everyone with his switch to Ferrari in 2025, in which John Elkann, the Chairman of Ferrari, played a big part. And just days after that, Red Bull Racing got under the spotlight when allegations of inappropriate behavior against Christian Horner were made public by the Dutch newspaper, De Telegraaf. Both events have garnered a lot of attention and speculation from the F1 community. And now it is being reported that John Elkann just had a discussion with the Red Bull management amidst the rumors of the potential sacking of Helmut Marko.

It is now well known that John Elkann was the driving force behind Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. According to Formula 1 presenter Lawrence Barretto, John had been keen on having Hamilton join the team for some time. He expressed this desire to Hamilton during an informal chat around the time of the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix, saying, “Lewis come to Ferrari, we want you here.” Barretto revealed that Elkann reached out to Hamilton again shortly after the British driver signed a one-plus-one-year contract extension with Mercedes.

This time, Elkann presented Hamilton with a multi-year deal, which seemed to align more closely with Hamilton’s desires, as Mercedes had initially resisted his request for a three-year contract. The prospect of a longer commitment from Ferrari, with the possibility of an ambassadorial position, coupled with the allure of driving for the legendary Italian team, likely played a significant role in Hamilton’s decision-making process. Ever since the move became official, and the situation reportedly worsened within Red Bull, many have speculated that Adrian Newey might switch to Ferrari alongside Lewis Hamilton to create the greatest driver-car designer pair in F1.

READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton Reveals Mercedes Is “Going Backwards” After Shock Ferrari Move

Did John Elkann visit the Red Bull hospitality regarding the ongoing situation within Red Bull or with a plan to poach some top employees? We don’t know as of yet. But hopefully, there will be an update soon enough.

Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen threaten to leave Red Bull

Tensions are brewing within Red Bull Racing, and at the center of it all is Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, and his unshakable support for Helmut Marko, the motorsport advisor for the team. Verstappen hinted at a possible departure from Red Bull should Marko face removal from his position.

Reports emerged suggesting that Marko could be suspended following the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after an internal investigation has been started against the 80-year-old. Verstappen wasted no time in expressing his loyalty to Marko, emphasizing the significant role Marko plays in his decision-making process regarding his future in Formula 1. Also, speculation is picking pace regarding Verstappen’s contractual situation, with suggestions of an exit clause that could enable him to leave Red Bull if Marko departs.

Dr. Marko himself admitted that if he were to stay in the team, certain conditions have to be met and that he would do things his way. This situation may end up benefiting Mercedes, as Toto Wolff has been vocal about welcoming Helmut Marko into the Mercedes family. And there is a big chance that Verstappen will follow suit. Do you think Toto Wolff can play his cards right and convince Marko and Verstappen to join the Brackley squad?

Let us know your insights in the comments down below.