Helmut Marko shared that Max Verstappen was saddened by the news of the veteran Austrian’s departure from Red Bull. Marko also mentioned that the four-time Formula 1 World champion would leave the team if they fail to maintain a conducive environment for his success.

After serving as an advisor and overseeing the junior driver program at Red Bull for two decades, the 82-year-old Marko will be stepping down at the end of the year. It was Marko who brought Verstappen into the Red Bull team as a promising young talent, fending off competition from Mercedes.

Marko and Verstappen had a strong bond. During a period of internal unrest at Red Bull last year, Verstappen publicly supported Marko, indicating that he might consider leaving if his mentor departed, referring to Marko as a ‘second father.’

In an interview with Austrian publication Kleine Zeitung, Marko revealed that Verstappen was somewhat saddened by his departure and reminisced about their shared experiences and successes. Marko emphasized the importance of a harmonious environment for Verstappen’s success, stating that if this is compromised, Verstappen may abruptly leave the team.

Although Marko’s exit was officially portrayed as his own decision by Red Bull GmbH, reports suggest tensions between Marko and Red Bull’s leadership had been escalating. Allegations include Marko’s public criticism of a driver and unauthorized actions regarding a junior driver’s contract.

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