Telegraph Sport has learned that Red Bull is prepared to stand firm against any attempt by Max Verstappen to leave the team. Speculation has arisen regarding Verstappen’s potential activation of an ‘escape clause’ in his contract, purportedly allowing him to depart alongside Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s Austrian motorsport advisor, should Marko exit the team.
Marko hinted at this possibility on Friday amidst the aftermath of an investigation into Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner. Despite Marko’s insinuations, sources reveal that Red Bull’s majority owner, Chalerm Yoodivhya, remains resolute in not yielding to any demands.
Yoodivhya, who holds a 51% stake in Red Bull GmBH, reportedly conveyed to Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, during a meeting in Dubai that the team’s integrity trumps individual interests.
While Horner has been exonerated following an internal probe, tensions persist, particularly with Marko and Jos Verstappen, Max’s father. Marko’s recent comments on Austrian broadcaster ORF alluding to a possible suspension further fueled speculation.
Some speculate that Marko’s statements might be strategic, aiming to prompt Red Bull into dismissing him, thereby potentially enabling Verstappen to enact the alleged escape clause.
However, indications suggest a shift in circumstances. Marko, accompanied by Red Bull GmBH’s head of sport, Oliver Mintzlaff, made reassuring remarks during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. Mintzlaff expressed contentment with the management, notably backing Horner. Marko, after discussions with Mintzlaff, dispelled rumors, affirming his commitment to stay.
Should Marko depart and Verstappen pursue the escape clause, uncertainties loom over the timing of his potential exit—whether immediate or at the conclusion of the current season or beyond. With Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari creating a vacancy at Mercedes, speculation links Verstappen to the Brackley-based team. However, Red Bull declined to comment on the matter.
When questioned about Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes, Toto Wolff expressed admiration for the Dutch driver but emphasized the need for Mercedes to address their own car issues first. Wolff acknowledged that every team on the grid would eagerly welcome Verstappen into their ranks.
Red Bull remains steadfast amid speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future, while the possibility of a move to Mercedes tantalizes, pending further developments.
