Marko: Verstappen Now Leads Red Bull, No Longer Needs Guidance

Helmut Marko has declared Max Verstappen has evolved from a star driver into a team leader, marking a significant shift in the dynamic at Red Bull Racing. Following his own departure from his advisory role, Marko paints a picture of a matured Verstappen who is at the peak of his powers and ready to guide the team to more championships.

Why it matters:

Marko's comments signify a passing of the torch at Red Bull, with Verstappen now seen as the central pillar of the team's present and future. This transition comes during a period of internal upheaval, and Verstappen's emergence as a leader is viewed as the crucial stabilizing force that can keep the team at the forefront of Formula 1.

The details:

• A New Role for Max: Marko stated, "Max has become such a personality, he no longer needs advice—he's already leading a team." This highlights Verstappen's growth from a prodigious talent into a definitive leader within the garage.
• Team Stability: The veteran advisor believes the team has stabilized remarkably since the summer break and the departure of Christian Horner, saying, "I see everything in good hands" with Verstappen at the helm.
• Verstappen's Continued Dominance: Marko sees no end in sight for Verstappen's career at the top. "I see no end to his abilities, his incredible driving talent, and his technical feel," he said, adding that more titles are inevitable "if the necessary car is available."
• Personal Growth: Marko also pointed to Verstappen's personal maturation, noting he is now a father with a more balanced life, which has contributed to his on-track dominance. He ranked him among the all-time greats, stating, "He is clearly one of the very greats in motorsport—if not the greatest."
• A Logical Exit: Marko framed his own departure as a natural consequence of Verstappen's development. "He has developed to the point where he no longer needs leadership. It would be presumptuous of me to add anything. In that sense, it's a good solution."

What's next:

With Verstappen firmly established as the team's leader, Red Bull's focus will be on providing him with a championship-caliber car to capitalize on his prime. Marko's retirement marks the end of an era, but he has passed the reins to a driver he believes is the team's greatest asset for years to come.