Some performance-related targets are now unachievable, as Red Bull leads the constructors’ championship and Verstappen tops the drivers’ standings heading into the summer break.
At the start of the year, a secret clause emerged in Verstappen’s contract, added last winter by his management and Helmut Marko, without Red Bull F1 team principal Christian Horner’s knowledge. This clause allowed Verstappen to cancel his contract if Marko left the team.
Speculation about Marko’s future earlier this year put Verstappen’s position with Red Bull in doubt. Verstappen consistently stated he wouldn’t stay without Marko, which opened the possibility of him joining Mercedes. During the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Verstappen emphasized Marko’s importance, saying, “I’ve always clearly indicated that he has to stay, so I can’t continue without him. Helmut is very important for the team and for me to continue, for the future of the team.”
In response to Mercedes’ interest, Red Bull has secured Marko’s position to ensure Verstappen stays. Sources reveal Marko has signed a document committing to his contract until the end of 2026. Additionally, there’s an agreement in principle from Verstappen that he won’t use Marko’s absence, due to uncontrollable circumstances like illness, as a reason to leave.
This commitment effectively makes Verstappen unavailable to other teams for the next two years and possibly longer if Red Bull continues to perform well. Consequently, Mercedes must decide whether to promote junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli or consider an experienced driver like Carlos Sainz for the next season.
