Red Bull Racing’s advisor, Helmut Marko, has made a surprising admission about Max Verstappen’s potential departure from the team, revealing that the Dutch driver may leave if Red Bull’s recent decline in performance continues.
Marko expressed concerns that Verstappen’s frustration with the team’s struggles this season could lead to him seeking new opportunities, despite being under contract until 2028. Red Bull’s dominance in the early part of the season, which saw Verstappen win seven out of the first 10 races, has been replaced by a drought—he has gone winless in the last eight races, as McLaren emerged as the new leading force.
Speaking about Verstappen’s mindset, Marko said, “The danger is there. Max is not a guy who wants to beat the records of [Michael] Schumacher or [Lewis] Hamilton. When he’s in the car, he wants to win, but the environment has to be right. If the whole thing no longer suits him, you can expect him to say from one day to the next: that’s it!”
Rumors have been swirling about Verstappen’s future, especially with long-standing interest from Mercedes. Red Bull’s behind-the-scenes turmoil, including potential staff departures, has only fueled speculation about his exit.
Marko also confirmed that Verstappen’s contract includes performance-related exit clauses that could facilitate his departure if Red Bull fails to provide a competitive car. “Most top drivers have exit clauses that are performance-related. Max has one too,” Marko revealed. “This means that if we can’t provide him with a car in which he can drive at the front, [leaving] is certainly something he will consider.”
Verstappen, who recently competed in his 200th race at the Dutch Grand Prix, has been clear that his future in Formula 1 is uncertain beyond his current contract. The upcoming regulation changes in 2026 could play a decisive role in his decision to stay or leave the sport.
“Of course, ‘28 is still very far away but in my mind at the moment, I’m not thinking about a new contract,” Verstappen stated in Zandvoort. “I just want to see how it goes. Also see the new regulations first, you know, if it’s fun or not. And then even in ‘26, ‘27, there’s a lot of time to decide what happens.”
With Verstappen’s future at Red Bull potentially in question, fans are left wondering—if Red Bull’s struggles continue, could a dramatic switch to Mercedes or another top team be on the horizon for the reigning champion?
