Marko acknowledges that Verstappen plays a crucial role in maintaining his position in Formula 1.

      Dr. Helmut Marko acknowledges that supporting Max Verstappen is one of the primary reasons he continues to work in Formula 1 at nearly 82 years old. Last year, during the upheaval in leadership at Red Bull involving Christian Horner, Marko was close to being ousted but was saved by Verstappen’s public endorsement and ultimatum. "I've never felt such a connection with a driver," Marko confides to the Dutch magazine Formule 1. "That’s something I admit openly."

      The interviewer described Marko as Verstappen’s "second father." Marko chuckles, replying, "You won't hear me say that. What I do know is that when I first had a serious discussion with Max, he was just 13 years old. Typically, I spend 10 to 15 minutes talking to a young driver, but with Max, it lasted over an hour."

      Years later, even the stoic Marko admits he was touched by Verstappen's efforts to ensure he remained at Red Bull. "I continue in this role for two reasons – one being Max and the other to uphold the legacy of Red Bull and Dietrich Mateschitz within the racing team. At least, that’s what I strive to do, as there’s no one who can truly replace Mateschitz."

      Regarding Max, Marko describes him as a remarkable talent and a unique individual. "He embodies everything Red Bull represents. The boss always said – we don’t buy stars, we create them. Max perfectly exemplifies that: he’s candid, approachable, and an excellent sportsman. It's a joy to work with someone like that, although I also had a close relationship with Seb (Vettel)."

      Verstappen's strong bond with Marko has allowed his father, Jos, to gradually withdraw from the daily oversight of his son’s career. Jos has indicated plans to participate in "19 or 20" rallying events in 2025, including all the BRC and ERC rallies, the Rallye International du Valais, and a historic rally in Sweden, as he shared with the Op De Rallykoffie podcast. "We will also take part in the East African Safari Classic Rally with the Porsche. We have an incredibly exciting program. However, I'm still involved with Max, just not as much as before. He’s now old enough and mature enough to manage on his own."

      Verstappen will first drive the 2025 Red Bull car the day before the official pre-season testing begins in Bahrain, for a private filming session.