Marko unfazed by Max's Mercedes meeting.

      Dr. Helmut Marko appeared mostly unfazed or evasive when questioned about the swirling rumors regarding Max Verstappen’s future. According to Germany’s Sport Bild, the 82-year-old Marko, who was once the right-hand man to the late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, is believed to have regained significant power within the brand’s Formula 1 operations. This comes after a lengthy power struggle and the shocking mid-season dismissal of team principal Christian Horner.

      "Marko wields more influence now than he has in years," stated Sport Bild, noting how Horner had systematically diminished the Austrian's role since Mateschitz passed away in 2022. "Now Marko is back in control - and with him, Verstappen."

      A family friend of Horner suggested to The Sun in Britain that the dismissal was "a targeted effort for control of the race team because Red Bull’s Austrian headquarters disapproved of a British individual managing their race team."

      In light of the Horner sacking, unverified rumors surfaced that Verstappen and Toto Wolff had anchored their luxury yachts near each other in Sardinia—possibly to discuss a contract with Mercedes for 2026. When asked if he’s had any communication with the four-time world champion since Horner’s departure, Marko responded to Osterreich newspaper: "Max was informed. I don’t want to elaborate further on that."

      However, after being questioned about the rumors of a meeting between Verstappen and Wolff in Sardinia, Marko stated, "Max can meet whoever he chooses. We have a valid contract, and we believe Max will continue with us." Yet, even Nelson Piquet Jr.—whose sister Kelly recently had a baby with Verstappen—acknowledged that it’s "obvious" talks are happening between Verstappen and Mercedes.

      Dutch racer Jeroen Bleekemolen commented to NOS: "I would consider making the switch. The last time new engines were introduced, in 2014, Mercedes got it right—so right that they dominated Formula 1 for years. It’s logical to want to drive for them with the new cars."

      Despite this, Red Bull is still not dismissing their chances for the 2025 drivers’ title, likely hoping to persuade Verstappen of their potential to recover quickly. "There are still 332 points available, which is a considerable amount," Marko stated. "We hope the updates we’re bringing to Spa and Budapest will have a positive effect."

      He acknowledged that a poor outcome at Spa this weekend would be detrimental, possibly fatal for his championship hopes. "That’s to be expected," Marko noted. Finally, he dismissed ongoing speculation that Sebastian Vettel is being considered to replace him as Red Bull’s chief motorsport consultant. "That’s not a concern, and it won’t become one."