Max Verstappen has commented on his future with Red Bull Photograph:(AFP)
Max Verstappen has opened up for the first time on his future at Red Bull after legendary car designer Adrian Newey announced he was leaving the team at the end of the season.
Max Verstappen has been on the fence about his contract with Red Bull that runs till 2028, ever since allegations of improper conduct surfaced against team principal Christian Horner.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about money for me. I’m already very happy of course with what I’m having at the team,” said Verstappen on the sidelines of the Miami Grand Prix when quizzed about his Red Bull plans.
Max Verstappen admitted that he did not want Newey to leave but played down the impact that his departure had on the team’s performance.
“Adrian from when he started at Red Bull was incredibly important for the success that they had, over time his role has changed a bit and a lot of people don’t understand what he was actually doing,” he said.
“I’m not saying he was not doing anything but his role has evolved. A lot of good people came into the team which has strengthened that whole department. would have preferred him to stay for sure. I really trust the technical team we have is very strong and they have shown that in the last few years with how competitive the car is,” he added.
The three-time world champion further played down the impact saying Newey’s departure may have looked “dramatic” from the outside but what was happening inside the team was “not as dramatic as it seems”.
Helmut Marko to depart as well?
While Max Verstappen looks to stay put at the moment, the departure of Red Bull Motorsport director Helmut Marko could accelerate the talks as the F1 driver has stated on multiple occasions that if Marko leaves the team, he might consider a switch.
Meanwhile, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has openly said he would love to sign Verstappen if he decides to leave Red Bull. Current Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will be moving to Ferrari in the 2025-25 season which has led to Wolff looking for replacements.
