Helmut Marko recently shared that Max Verstappen expressed sadness upon hearing about Marko’s impending departure from Red Bull. Marko also indicated that Verstappen may consider leaving the team if the environment is not conducive to his success.
After two decades as a team advisor and head of the junior driver program, the 82-year-old Marko will be stepping down at the end of the year. Marko played a pivotal role in bringing Verstappen into the Red Bull family, fending off competition from Mercedes for the talented young driver.
The bond between Marko and Verstappen has been notably strong. Verstappen publicly supported Marko during a tumultuous period at Red Bull, even suggesting he might leave the team if Marko departed, emphasizing their close relationship.
In an interview with an Austrian publication, Marko shared that Verstappen seemed melancholic about his departure, reflecting on their shared achievements and memorable moments. Marko expressed pride in Verstappen’s growth and maturity over the years.
Despite previous warnings from Verstappen about leaving Red Bull if conditions were not favorable, Marko clarified that Verstappen has accepted his decision to step down. Marko emphasized that while success is important to Verstappen, maintaining a harmonious environment is crucial, and any deviation from that could prompt a sudden departure.
Red Bull’s official statement portrayed Marko’s exit as voluntary, with the team regretting his decision to leave. However, reports suggest that tensions between Marko and the team’s leadership had been escalating, with incidents like public criticism causing PR issues.
Marko has dismissed rumors of signing drivers without authorization, attributing them to misinformation. He denied the claims and criticized the spread of false information by certain media outlets.
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