Max Verstappen may part ways with the Red Bull F1 team before 2028, owing to a provision in his contract triggered by the current uncertainty surrounding Christian Horner.
The three-time world champion’s contract reportedly includes an exit clause that allows him to depart if Helmut Marko, a key figure in the team, ceases to be involved.
Speculation about Verstappen’s future intensified following rumors linking him to a potential move to Mercedes in 2025. Despite Red Bull’s strong start to the season with a 1-2 finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix, off-track turmoil has overshadowed their success.
The turmoil stems from allegations of inappropriate behavior against Horner, which he has been cleared of following an independent inquiry.
However, the controversy deepened when journalists, team principals, and senior F1 officials received supposed evidence from the investigation via an anonymous email account during the Bahrain race weekend.
Horner has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and opted not to address the alleged evidence, presenting a united front with his wife, Geri Horner, who stood by him at the race.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s father, Jos, expressed concerns that the ongoing situation involving Horner could fracture the team, suggesting that Horner should step down.
Jos Verstappen’s post-race conversation with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff fueled speculation that Max could potentially join Mercedes if Red Bull’s internal issues worsen.
The current uncertainty surrounding Max Verstappen’s future appears to hinge on the status of Helmut Marko within the Red Bull organization. Marko, an advisor to Red Bull, has overseen their young driver program, nurturing talents like Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel, and Daniel Ricciardo.
Marko has stated that he would not block Verstappen’s departure if the driver wishes to leave, indicating the pivotal role he plays in Verstappen’s decision-making process regarding his future with the team.
He stated; “The internal investigations have been completed. I won’t say anything more about it.
“As far as I’m concerned: I won’t stand in Max’s way [should he decide to leave].”
