When, at the beginning of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Helmut Marko was subjected to an internal investigation by Red Bull on the accusation of allowing a leak of information to the press, Max Verstappen was one of the few who stood by him. The 81-year-old speaks again about what happened and reveals that, to this day, one of the reasons that still ties him to the Milton Keynes team is the Dutch driver.
“It certainly wasn’t a pleasant period. During those months, many rumors circulated,” Helmut Marko reflected, speaking with motorsport-magazin. “But then, when I spoke with Oliver Mintzlaff and Franz Watzlawick, two senior executives at Red Bull, I decided to stay even after the suspension. And yes, that suspension was one of the many problems at play during the transition to new management after the death of Dietrich Mateschitz.”
Max Verstappen crucial for Helmut Marko’s commitment
At the beginning of the season, not only Helmut Marko’s future permanence was in question. After the investigation into Christian Horner, following accusations made by an employee, had caused an internal earthquake within the team, Max Verstappen himself had suggested that the possibility of leaving the team wasn’t that remote. Furthermore, the 26-year-old driver doesn’t hide the fact that he only wants to stay in the top category for a few more years before dedicating himself to other projects.
“I am independent,” Helmut Marko stated. “I don’t need this job. The reason I stay is my passion, but above all, the strong bond I have with Max Verstappen and the Verstappen family in general. It was clear to me that, if I stayed [after the suspension], I wouldn’t be hindered or limited in any way, so I can always do what’s best for Max.”
So it’s possible that when Max Verstappen leaves the Milton Keynes team, the latter will also have to say goodbye to its consultant?
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