Marko: Verstappen’s exit clause could be activated this summer
Red Bull's performance is being called into question, and an exit clause could become the key to Verstappen's future. Rival teams such as Mercedes and Aston Martin are watching for the slightest sign of an opening. The summer break could change everything.
Max Verstappen and Red Bull, it’s a love story that has lasted for years. But lately, a shadow hangs over their relationship: an exit clause that could shake everything up. « Of course, every top driver has an exit clause if the performance isn’t good », Helmut Marko revealed to Formel1.de.
While last year this clause was directly tied to Marko‘s presence within the team, he has assured that this element has now been removed. But then, what could push Verstappen to activate this exit door?
Red Bull under pressure
Even if Max clinched his third title in 2023 with disconcerting ease, 2024 proved to be more complicated and the start of the 2025 season is off to a rough start as well. McLaren has come to stir up trouble, forcing Red Bull to step up their game. « Improvements are necessary for Max to win his fifth world title. That’s our main goal and the whole team is working hard to achieve it », insists Marko.
Despite everything, doubts are creeping in. Verstappen has never hidden that he wants to fight for victories, not just for podiums. So if Red Bull is no longer able to provide him with a competitive car, could he really consider leaving? For several months now, rumors of a move to Mercedes or Aston Martin have been intensifying. Toto Wolff has never hidden his interest in Verstappen. With Lewis Hamilton heading to Ferrari this year, a golden seat has opened up.
Aston Martin, on its side, could also be a serious option. Lawrence Stroll wants to turn his team into a top contender by the time the regulations are overhauled in 2026. Attracting Verstappen would be a masterstroke. The four-time world champion remains discreet, but everyone knows he will only stay with Red Bull if the team continues to provide him with a dominant car.
Summer, moment of truth for Red Bull?
Helmut Marko plays down the concerns, but he doesn’t hide that summer could be a decisive turning point. « Yes, that’s the timeframe », he answered when asked if the exit clause could become a hot topic during the summer break.
For now, Red Bull sits in second place in the constructors’ standings, while Verstappen is only eight points behind the championship leader. Nothing alarming, but the tension is real. « But please, we’re second in the drivers’ championship with a deficit of eight points. The summer break is still far away », he tried to reassure.
And if Marko were to leave the team as well if Verstappen departs? He himself left the door open: « That could be a good reason, yes. » So, Max and Red Bull — the end of the story or just a storm in a teacup? We’ll find out in a few months…
