Marko finally responds to meeting with Jos Verstappen and Raymond Vermeulen

A ‘leaked’ photo appeared last week claiming Marko, Vermeulen, and Verstappen Sr. had a meeting in the Netherlands. The trio were sat on a terrace in Amsterdam, was accompanied by news from a Dutch newspaper seemed to signal that high-level talks are still ongoing about the future of the F1 driver, who has left it unclear for some time whether he will remain with Red Bull Racing.

Marko has since returned to Austria, after spending a few days in the Dutch capital. During that time, international media tried to reach the now 83-year-old to ask about his trip to the Netherlands and the conversation he had there.

Marko also could not (or would not) comment on the outlook for his former protégé, with whom he maintains a close friendship. The suspicion is that Marko got a sense in Amsterdam of the directions Verstappen is considering for 2027, but he did not want to share that with GPblog. When asked what Max Verstappen will do next year, he said: “No idea. I am not in charge anymore.”

Unlike a few weeks ago—when he spoke candidly about confidence in Red Bull and an expected turnaround in sporting performance—Marko was equally unwilling to assess his former team. “That’s also not my business. You have to ask Laurent [Mekies].”

At first glance, these are remarkable quotes from Marko, who in the past always told the media what he thought and felt. With an important decision for Verstappen looming and Red Bull’s sporting troubles (again) mounting, the Austrian is keeping his distance.

In any case, Marko has not been seen in the F1 paddock at all this season, not even at the Austrian Grand Prix. In Spielberg, paddock insiders whispered that Marko had been asked to stay away, even though he lives a 45-minute drive from the circuit. Others said Marko simply didn’t feel like attending the Grand Prix.

Marko confirmed to GPblog that he won’t be showing up anywhere this season. “I will not attend any Grand Prix this year,” he said firmly. In that case, Marko will not see Max Verstappen drive in what could well turn out to be his last year at Red Bull Racing.