Reigning world champion Max Verstappen has expressed his support for Sebastian Vettel`s potential return to Red Bull in a leadership capacity.
Vettel, a four-time consecutive drivers` champion with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013, recently disclosed that he is in preliminary discussions with Helmut Marko regarding a possible advisory role, potentially succeeding Marko. Helmut Marko, a pivotal figure in Red Bull`s driver development program, faces the end of his contract in late 2026. He has not yet committed to continuing beyond that point, by which time he will be 84 years old.
When questioned about Vettel during Thursday`s press conference ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen remarked, “It`s entirely natural for someone who has achieved so much and grown within Red Bull… there`s always a place for them.” Verstappen added, “I believe Seb has always maintained an excellent relationship with Helmut, even after his departure.” While unaware of their ongoing discussions, Verstappen asserted, “I`m certain there`s always a place for Seb in some capacity.”
Vettel raced for Red Bull for six seasons before moving to Ferrari in 2015, the year before Verstappen was promoted to the senior team in 2016. Following six seasons with Ferrari, where he did not secure further championships, Vettel concluded his F1 career with two seasons at Aston Martin, retiring at the close of 2022.
Earlier in the week, Vettel himself addressed the possibility of succeeding Marko in an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF: “I don`t know. There have been some headlines, and I still get along very well with Helmut.” He continued, “We`re in contact about this, though perhaps not yet with great intensity or depth, but it`s a possibility. The exact nature of any role remains to be seen.”
Verstappen Dismisses Media Reports Regarding Perez Relationship
During the same press conference, Verstappen was also questioned about former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez, whose recent podcast appearance had generated media attention. In the extensive interview, Perez had suggested that Verstappen “internalizes” issues before expressing them on track, reflecting on a rare on-track incident between them during their four years as teammates.
Verstappen, however, asserted that Perez`s comments were taken out of context by the media and affirmed that he maintains a “great relationship” with him. He stated, “I believe the way it was phrased isn`t what he intended. I have an excellent relationship with Checo. We`ve always been great teammates. I have a lot of respect for him, and he for me, and that`s my perspective.”
Verstappen also mentioned, “I`m looking forward to seeing him in the paddock again soon. I still owe him one of my helmets, which I promised him. He gave me one of his with a very kind message, and I hope to give him mine around the time of the Mexican Grand Prix.” He concluded, “Regardless of what`s reported in the media, I know Checo well, and we share a strong relationship.”
