Marko: The likelihood of Verstappen leaving has 'diminished.'

      "I’m confident it will function as intended."

      Dr. Helmut Marko is no longer as concerned that Max Verstappen might depart from Red Bull at the conclusion of 2025. Speculation persists that, amid ongoing performance issues and internal tensions, along with an increasing number of errors, including during pit stops, the four-time world champion could leave just in time for the major rule changes in 2026.

      Mercedes showed clear interest in signing Verstappen last year, and now there are claims of a $100 million annual offer from Aston Martin. "I saw that too," Marko, a Red Bull advisor, mentioned to Bild newspaper. "However, I don’t believe that holds much weight for Max. He is compensated well with us, and more importantly, he just wants to win.

      "That’s why we need to give him the fastest car. We’re actively working on it and will be introducing upgrades soon." Nonetheless, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher expressed that he "can’t imagine" the Imola upgrade will significantly reduce the gap to McLaren, while team principal Christian Horner even refuted claims that the upgrade is substantial.

      Marko, however, has been promoting the Imola upgrade for some time, hinting that if it fails, Verstappen might contemplate leaving. "I’m not concerned about that because I’m sure it will operate as planned," asserted Marko, 82. "We’ve pinpointed our problem areas and are actively seeking solutions."

      Consequently, he dismisses the notion that Red Bull is facing a "crisis." "That’s an exaggeration," stated the Austrian. "Let’s not forget we are the only team aside from McLaren to secure a grand prix victory, and our performance has somewhat improved recently. Yet, we are still not content. Our ambitions go beyond that.

      "We want to win races and championships," Marko continued. "But that necessitates not only an outstanding driver but the fastest car as well. Currently, we don’t have that. However, it’s not over yet. We still have every opportunity to win both world championship titles.

      "It would be a disaster if we gave up just because things aren’t unfolding as planned." Nevertheless, Marko recently admitted he is "very worried" that ongoing stagnation at Red Bull could lead to Verstappen, 27, moving to a rival team. "That’s correct," he acknowledged, "but that concern has lessened.

      "Max is loyal and has publicly stated his commitment to Red Bull. That aligns with what I observe in him now. He is completely focused on his role here. "That’s why I don’t think he’s contemplating a change," Marko said. "On the contrary, I’m convinced Max will continue to race for Red Bull in 2026."

      He mentioned having several discussions with Verstappen about his expectations for 2025. "Everyone - including Max - agreed that defending the title is clearly the goal, but we can’t take it for granted.

      "We’ll do everything possible, but no one can expect us to win every time," Marko added. Verstappen, who recently became a father to his daughter Lily, confirmed that he is approaching the 2025 season in a way that is much less "emotional" than the media suggests.

      "Of course, the baby is an exception," he joked to Viaplay. "I’ve never felt so nervous at rest. But the racing part is just racing, and I’ve been involved in it for so long that nothing can truly unsettle me.

      "I’ve stated for a while now - once you’ve achieved your dreams of grand prix victories and championships, you’re a lot more relaxed. Even if you have an off day, it doesn’t really matter. It’s more about how you recover - you just keep moving forward and put it behind you.

      "You become much calmer and focus on what lies ahead. That’s what I’m doing," Verstappen emphasized.