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Max Verstappen's vocal support for Helmut Marko when rumors circulated of the Austrian's suspension from Red Bull was a big sign of loyalty, according to the 80-year-old. The 2024 F1 season has been a rollercoaster for the team off-track.
It all began with an internal investigation against the team principal, Christian Horner. What followed was an unexpected political turmoil where the team was divided into two parts. During this time, rumors circulated that Red Bull would suspend Helmut Marko for his alleged involvement in leaking information to the media.
With the reports circulating during the F1 Saudi Arabian GP, Max Verstappen publicly came out in support of the Austrian. The Dutch driver was quite explicit in his support and said that he would not be a part of the Red Bull squad if Helmut Marko left.
In an interview with kleinezeitung.at, the Austrian driver looked back at the moment and said that it was a sign of loyalty which is rare in this day and age. He said:
"That was a really big sign of loyalty. I absolutely don't take that for granted, especially in this day and age."
Talking about Max Verstappen's teammate Sergio Perez, Helmut Marko was quite complimentary of the Mexican, who has three podiums in the first four races of the season. He said:
"It is clear that “Checo” is currently having his best season since he has been with us. If he maintains these performances like those in qualifying in Japan, then he is certainly the best option for 2025 at Red Bull. He is a worker for the team and has now also realized that the radically different path he took last year in matters Setup chose was the wrong one. Now the car is closer to Max's set-up and that helps him."
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri ruled out of being Max Verstappen's teammates
Talking about prospective candidates that could team up with Max Verstappen next season, Helmut Marko ruled out both the McLaren drivers. Lando Norris was someone that Red Bull had reached out to in the past but he opted to extend his contract with his current team.
Oscar Piastri also has a long-term contract with McLaren and hence both were ruled out of contention by Marko. He said:
"Norris has at least a contract until 2026, so he is not an option in the short term, nor is Oscar Piastri. But both drivers are certainly interesting for us in the future."
The manner in which Sergio Perez has shown form in the first few weeks of the season, he could be the frontrunner to keep his seat for the next season as well.
