Marko acknowledges 'GP' departure as doubts about Verstappen increase.

      "You should not prevent someone from leaving."

      Dr. Helmut Marko has revealed that he was already aware of Gianpiero Lambiase’s intended exit, as speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future grows. "I’ve known for some time that 'GP' would be heading to McLaren," Marko, the former team advisor, stated in an interview with Krone newspaper in Vienna. "He is a key employee, and he is bound by a non-compete clause, which means he could take valuable knowledge or proprietary information with him."

      The Austrian also recognized the potential implications for Verstappen, whose long-term commitment to Red Bull is increasingly under the microscope. "The situation is becoming more critical for Max—what’s most important for his ongoing presence is that he can achieve victories again soon," Marko explained. This aligns with the growing rumors in the paddock that Verstappen might invoke an exit clause in his contract if Red Bull fails to be competitive by mid-season.

      Former driver Ralf Schumacher believes Lambiase’s move could hasten that process. "I suspect there will be negotiations between the two sides. I can’t envision him remaining at Red Bull until 2027," he commented. "Now it’s a matter of a transfer fee, because when a decision is made this early, it typically signals that the engineer is leaving." Schumacher also mentioned that Red Bull may not aggressively attempt to retain Verstappen. "You should not hinder someone who wishes to depart. Gianpiero Lambiase always indicated, 'I’m with Max, and Max is with me.' That position seems to have changed. In my opinion, Max will seek new opportunities next year."

      He further elaborated on several possibilities, including a transition to McLaren. "On one hand, this might mean he departs from Red Bull due to a lack of faith in the team and exits entirely," he stated. "Alternatively, he might join McLaren with his engineer, which suggests negotiations might be taking place for Oscar Piastri to move to Red Bull."

      Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, who is familiar with Verstappen’s camp, concurs that the situation is dynamic. "A lot is unfolding behind the scenes, and even more is expected in the coming months related to Verstappen," he told De Telegraaf. "McLaren’s Zak Brown is quite intrigued by Max, and there’s significant mutual respect. With Lambiase, they would have an additional advantage. But that’s not all—Ferrari and Mercedes will also be closely monitoring the situation."