Max Verstappen expressed deep gratitude following Helmut Marko’s confirmed departure from Red Bull after 20 years.

Marko announced his exit two days after the 2025 season ended, a campaign in which Verstappen missed the title by two points to Lando Norris.

Verstappen highlighted Marko’s long-standing belief in him, noting that they achieved “everything we ever dreamed of together.”

Marko’s role at Red Bull spanned two decades, beginning after the team took over Jaguar in 2005. During that time, Red Bull secured six Constructors’ and eight Drivers’ Championships, and 17 drivers graduated to Formula 1 through the Red Bull Junior Team.

Verstappen, who became a four-time world champion under Marko’s guidance, shared his reaction via Instagram, thanking Marko and acknowledging his influence since the Dutchman entered the junior programme.

A post-race radio exchange between Oscar Piastri and his engineer Tom Stallard drew attention after McLaren CEO Zak Brown twice interrupted the conversation.

The moment occurred immediately after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Lando Norris secured the 2025 World Championship and Piastri finished second, ending the season third overall behind Norris and Max Verstappen.

Stallard began congratulating Piastri, noting his seven wins and strong season, before Brown cut in to celebrate Norris’ title and praise Piastri’s performance.

Stallard resumed his message briefly, highlighting Piastri’s progress compared to the previous year, but Brown again interjected to reiterate his pride and encouragement for the future.

The exchanges took place over team radio moments after the chequered flag at Yas Marina.

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.