Helmut Marko reveals 'Verstappen camp's influence' at Red Bull
Co-author:Norberto Mujica
Marnik Kok caught the Formula 1 world around twenty years ago. A deep passion for motorsport, Ferrari, and a background in journalism led him to contribute to various (international) F1 platforms. Since 2020, Marnik has been active as an editor and journalist in the pinnacle of motorsport for several media outlets, including De Telegraaf. As of 2025, he brings that experience to GPblog as a seasoned editor.
During his active years as a journalist — now working as a freelancer — Marnik attended numerous events, with the Dutch Grand Prix standing out as one of the highlights. In addition to his work at GPblog, Marnik is also active in the communications sector at a major national provider and steps in wherever needed. Sitting still is not an option — especially not in motorsport!
In the past few weeks, much has been said and speculated about how Christian Horner's departure came about. Often the ‘Verstappen camp’ was mentioned: they would've liked to see the former Red Bull CEO leave. Helmut Marko responds.
Even before the departure, there were already various speculations about a possible departure of Horner. Rumors circulated quickly, but did Verstappen's team (Max, father Jos Verstappen, and Manager Raymond Vermeulen) ultimately have anything to do with it?
Some said yes, others no. There has been internal pressure, maybe also from the Verstappen camp. Helmut Marko now responds to the rumours in conversation with De Telegraaf. “That's complete nonsense,” he clearly states.
It was the Red Bull top brass' decision
According to the Red Bull advisor, Verstappen has nothing to do with Horner's departure from the Austrian team. “This is a decision made by the leadership of the parent company and nobody else.”
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Plain speaking from Marko, who has now debunked the story. GPBLog previously reported that Verstappen's camp had nothing to do with it. Now, Red Bull's top brass has also confirmed this.
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