Helmut Marko spoke frankly about Max Verstappen and his relationship with F1. An unexpected observation about his motivations.
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Helmut Marko, a historic figure of the Red Bull Racing team, gave a rather unusual analysis concerning Max Verstappen, suggesting that the Dutchman found more pleasure in endurance racing than in Formula 1 during the past season.
According to him, the four-time world champion has never hidden a growing interest in other disciplines, notably GT racing and endurance events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. A passion that seems, according to Marko, “to be taking up more and more space”.
When asked about the subject, Marko confirmed that he closely follows these alternative activities of the driver. He explains that he regularly watches his performances online and says he is “impressed by his ability to navigate traffic and over long distances”, a format very different from F1.
A preference already visible last year
When asked if Verstappen now takes more pleasure in endurance than in F1, Marko’s answer was unambiguous. He believed that this trend was not new, suggesting that the phenomenon was “already noticeable last season”.
This observation comes in a context where the Red Bull driver regularly criticizes the current evolution of Formula 1, notably the complexity of technical regulations and the increasing importance given to spectacle at the expense of pure performance.
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At the same time, his involvement in other disciplines continues to grow, reinforcing the idea that he is seeking a different balance outside the F1 paddock.
An uncertain future in F1
Marko also discussed Red Bull’s sporting situation, acknowledging that the current season “looks complicated despite the stated ambitions”. The team is struggling to regain its past dominance, which fuels questions about the internal dynamics.
Regarding the future of the Dutch driver, the Austrian advisor remained cautious, explaining that he is not in a position to give indications about a possible retirement or a change of direction in the medium term.
For now, Verstappen remains focused on his commitments in Formula 1, but his external interests seem more present than ever in his daily life as a driver.
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