Max Verstappen has released a statement after Red Bull officially announced Helmut Marko will depart the organisation, just days after the Dutch driver lost out on the World Championship to Lando Norris.
Marko, who served as motorsport adviser for the energy drinks giant for more than 20 years, confirmed his exit in a statement released on Tuesday.
The 82-year-old Austrian indicated the agonisingly close championship defeat played a significant role in his timing.
He said: "Narrowly missing out on the world championship this season has moved me deeply and made it clear to me that now is the right moment for me personally to end this very long, intense, and successful chapter."
The former Formula One driver and Le Mans victor had been instrumental throughout Red Bull's entire existence in the sport.
Verstappen's bond with Marko runs exceptionally deep, with the four-time world champion regarding the Austrian as a father figure.
Following the announcement, the Dutchman posted an emotional message on X: "Thank you, Helmut. We've achieved everything we ever dreamed of together. I'm forever grateful for your belief in me."
The departure is likely to unsettle Verstappen, who made his position abundantly clear back in March 2024 when rumours circulated about Marko potentially facing suspension.
Max Verstappen has released a statement
|REUTERS
"If such an important pillar falls away, it is not good for my situation," Verstappen warned at the time, adding that Marko remained "an important part of my decision-making for the future.".
The Verstappen family, including father Jos, reportedly accepted Marko's decision with reluctance despite not wanting him to go.
His exit is the latest in a series of major personnel shifts at Red Bull during 2025.
Team principal Christian Horner departed in September following his sacking in July after a turbulent opening half of the campaign.
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Helmut Marko served as motorsport adviser for the energy drinks giant for more than 20 years
|REUTERS
Horner had previously been cleared of inappropriate behaviour allegations involving a female colleague.
Laurent Mekies stepped up from Racing Bulls to assume leadership duties.
Additionally, legendary design chief Adrian Newey left the Milton Keynes outfit to join Aston Martin, further depleting the team's established hierarchy.
Verstappen concluded the season strongly under Mekies's guidance, ultimately losing the championship to Lando Norris by a mere two points.
The Dutch driver won the last three races of the season, but it was not enough to secure the title
|PA
The Dutch driver won the last three races of the season, but it was not enough to secure the title.
Whilst there is currently no indication the Dutchman intends to leave Red Bull, Marko's departure could influence his longer-term plans.
The 2026 season will introduce the most substantial regulation overhauls in years, affecting both aerodynamic specifications and power units.
Should Red Bull fail to deliver a competitive machine, Verstappen may consider switching teams before 2027.
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