Helmut Marko claims Max Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen a ‘bigger fan’ of Toto Wolff than Christian Horner

Helmut Marko highlighted that Max Verstappen's family was not very fond of Christian Horner compared to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

Helmut Marko claims Max Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen a ‘bigger fan’ of Toto Wolff than Christian Horner

Toto Wolff, Helmut Marko and Christian Horner Jos Verstappen (images via IMAGO)

Rumors are circulating about Max Verstappen possibly moving to Mercedes as Red Bull’s performance continues to decline. Dr. Helmut Marko has suggested that Jos Verstappen, Max Verstappen’s father, is a bigger fan of Toto Wolff and Mercedes than Christian Horner. With early criticism from both Horner and Jos Verstappen, there are speculations that Max Verstappen might be considering a departure from the team.

Dr. Helmut Marko highlighted a rumored meeting between Toto Wolff and Jos Verstappen. According to Marko, many people in Formula 1, including Toto Wolff and Jos Verstappen live in Monte Carlo. Outside of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, Monte Carlo is a very quiet place with only a few coffee shops. Because of this, it’s common for people to bump into each other by chance. Marko suggested that Wolff is exaggerating the significance of these casual encounters, turning them into a bigger story than they really are.

The other story , all the people live in Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo, when it’s not the grand prix, it’s quite a quiet place. There are not so many coffee shops. So it's just natural that you run into each other, and of course, Toto makes a story out of it.
Helmut Marko told on Inside Line Podcast
YouTube video

Marko also noted that Jos Verstappen, appears to prefer Toto Wolff over Christian Horner. This suggested that the senior Verstappen might favor Mercedes over Red Bull in 2025 as they continue to struggle. Marko expressed concern that Max Verstappen can be influenced by his father about which team he might want to race for in the future.

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On the other hand, Jos is a bigger fan of Toto than he is of Christian.
Helmut Marko added.
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Helmut Marko affirms Max Verstappen will remain with Red Bull for the upcoming season

Helmut Marko stated that as of now, everything is straightforward regarding Max Verstappen’s future. He confirmed that Verstappen will continue driving for Red Bull Racing next season. Marko also emphasized the importance of providing the Dutchman with a competitive car that can win races. He believed that if Red Bull can deliver a winning car, all the rumors and speculation about him leaving the team will stop.

Max Verstappen, elmut Marko and Christian Horner
Max Verstappen, Helmut Marko and Christian Horner (Via: Imago)
At the moment, everything is clear. Max will drive for Red Bull Racing next season, and we have to give him a car that he can win, and then all these rumors will stop.
Helmut Marko stated.

Therefore, Marko was confident that keeping Max Verstappen happy and successful with a strong car is the best way to prevent any talk of him moving to another team. Fans hope the upcoming race in Monza turn out in favor of Red Bull as they’ve struggled to keep the pace in the last few races.

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