The Formula 1 world is again startled by an unseen power struggle within Red Bull Racing. After the official resignation of team boss Christian Horner, who was the face of the team for years, Helmut Marko – adviser and influential figure within Red Bull – made a strikingly sharp statement about the future of Max Verstappen. The consequences did not take long, because Jos Verstappen, father of Max, responded directly and fiercely.
In an interview with an Austrian medium, Marko stated that “no one greater than the team” and that “if Verstappen is not satisfied with the new course, there is enough talent ready to take his place.” These words fell like a bomb in the paddock. The suggestion that Red Bull Max could replace, even afterfour world titlesAnd his crucial role in the success of the team, was seen by many as provocative and thoughtless.
Jos Verstappen, who is known for his immediate style, did not let any grass grow. In a statement to the Dutch press, he said:
“If people within Red Bull think that Max is self -evident, they are very mistaken. Max has choices. He wants to win, but not at all costs. Nobody helps these kinds of statements.”
He added that Max is currently orienting himself and that “all options are open” before 2026, when the new motor regulations come into effect.
The atmosphere appears to be tense within the team itself. Since Horner’s departure, a man who has supported Max for years, a power vacuum has emerged. While Marko seems to want to exert more influence, there are rumors that Max and his entourage want to distance themselves more from the old guard.
The situation is becoming even more complicated due to the recent performance of the team. After a dominant period in 2022, 2023 and 2024, Red Bull’s car will show signs of vulnerability in 2025. Mercedes and Ferrari seem to be getting closer, while Aston Martin also continues to invest.
F1 analysts speculate that a departure from Max Verstappen to Mercedes or even Ferrari is no longer excluded, especially if the internal tensions at Red Bull are not solved quickly. With Toto Wolff who continues to pronounce his admiration for Verstappen, and with Lewis Hamilton who leaves for Ferrari, there may be a golden chance for Max to start a new chapter.
One thing is certain: what once seemed like an unassailable dynasty crackles on all sides. And the words of Helmut Marko could be the start of a break that will turn the Formula 1 world upside down.
