Retired Marko states that Verstappen 'no longer requires advice.'
"I don’t see any end to his abilities."
Recently retired Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko stated that four-time world champion Max Verstappen has developed into such a leader that he no longer requires guidance. In an interview with Germany’s Sport1, the 82-year-old mentioned that Verstappen now essentially operates the team independently.
"Max has become such a leader that he doesn’t need advice anymore - he’s practically running a team," Marko expressed. "The team has progressed well following Horner’s departure. I believe everything is in capable hands, and I’m already pleased at the prospect of not having to fly to Australia."
Marko is adjusting his TV viewing arrangements to ensure he still receives the information he is accustomed to, noting, "Without sector times and similar data, it’s challenging to interpret the races."
He also commented on Verstappen's life outside the race car. "Max is now a father, has pets, and leads a balanced life - he is undeniably one of the titans of motorsport, if not the greatest," he remarked. "However, he has reached a point where he no longer needs guidance from others. It would be presumptuous for me to add to that. In this regard, it’s a positive development."
Marko emphasized that Verstappen’s career is far from over, despite rumors that the new regulations might be prompting the Dutchman to leave Formula 1. "For Max, it’s not over yet," he stated. "I don’t foresee an end to his talents, his extraordinary driving skills, and his technical insight. If he has the right car, he’ll secure several more world championship titles."
Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, mentioned that his son had warned about the direction of Formula 1’s new regulations years in advance. "Max had discussed this two or three years ago," he revealed to Viaplay. "He had seen some data, but everyone dismissed him at the time, claiming Max was viewing it negatively."
"Now that the rules are implemented, everyone can recognize it. They should listen to the drivers more. But they don’t."
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