Verstappen would forfeit his privileges with Red Bull in other places.
"Where else would a whole team be tailored specifically for him?"
Ralf Schumacher believes that if Max Verstappen opts to leave Red Bull, he will need to make considerable compromises. With McLaren now being the latest team linked to the four-time world champion, Schumacher is skeptical that another option would provide the same benefits. "McLaren might be interested, but he wouldn’t have the same number 1 status there as he does at Red Bull," the German commented to Sky Deutschland. "The entire team is centered around him. He also wouldn’t be a works driver anymore. I’m not sure that would be the best scenario."
Schumacher further questioned the suitability of a customer Mercedes engine. "Mercedes provides everyone with the same power units, but regarding things like test engines or new specifications, the works team might still receive them a bit earlier. I don't think that's necessarily advantageous." He also reminded Verstappen of the pivotal role Red Bull played in his career. "It was Helmut Marko who recognized his talent, and Red Bull who invested in him," Schumacher noted. "So there’s definitely a sense of gratitude involved."
"Where else would a full team be designed around him? Perhaps at McLaren. But where does he have an entire team focused on him? Only at Red Bull. So I’d be cautious." He emphasized, "One crucial point is that Red Bull should not be underestimated. Many discussions have taken place, likely revolving around: ‘If this works out, I’ll stay.’ But eventually, that phase must come to an end. This human element cannot be overlooked. Where did Max Verstappen come from? Ultimately, Red Bull shaped him into who he is today. That’s only fair to acknowledge."
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