Helmut Marko expects Max Verstappen to "reconsider" Red Bull if 2026 not a success

Helmut Marko has said that Max Verstappen staying with Red Bull is the logical move for the driver, given the unpredictability of the 2026 regulations. This comes after talks between the four-time champion and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff were confirmed earlier this year as the Milton Keynes outfit struggled to maintain the dominance it had shown over the past few years.

Speaking on the F1-Insider podcast, the Austrian adviser discussed the likelihood of his driver moving to Mercedes, adding that it was clear to him that the four-time champion would always remain at Red Bull.

“From his statements it was clear that he wanted to stay, and it makes sense, even if the exit clause had become actionable," he said.

"No one knows what the situation will look like in 2026. On the engine side, Mercedes declare themselves the class leader, but there is no proof.

"On the chassis side, you don’t know whether someone will hit the jackpot. So there is a lot of uncertainty and, purely from his perspective, it makes much more sense to stay, look at all of this, and if perhaps we are not competitive next year, then reconsider his decision.”

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

With an overhaul of the powertrain and aerodynamics for next year's season, no driver can predict which team is going to excel. But Red Bull faces a larger battle than most as its partnership with Ford to create its own powertrain truly begins. Such a massive undertaking must not be underestimated. 

Despite this added pressure on the team, Verstappen has confirmed his future, at least for now. 

“Max is a very important part of our team. He has achieved his successes with Red Bull Racing; in his Formula 1 career he has only ever driven Red Bull cars, and beyond his driving potential he is simply a very important family member for us," Marko continued. 

Verstappen's place in the team was in doubt as the Mercedes chief admitted he was indeed in talks with the reigning champion. And with the driver staying silent for the most part before he finally confirmed his place at Red Bull, his future seemed wide open. 

"Well, the thing is that there's always other people speaking a lot, while I'm not really talking, because first of all I don't need to, I don't need to say anything," Verstappen said to F1.com when questioned on his silence.

"I think that's also better for everyone, instead of just waffling things around. It makes no sense anyway, it's a bit of a waste of time, but for me I'm very focused on '26 with the team, to look ahead and make sure that we nail the regulations, and that we are competitive from the start."