Marko warns Mercedes: 'He's not ready to be Verstappen's teammate

17:47, 02 Jul

byNicole Mulder

Although Max Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull Racing until the end of 2028 and has no intention of leaving for now, the rumor mill rolls on about a possible move to Mercedes. Helmut Marko believes it would not be wise to pair Verstappen with Andrea Kimi Antonelli as a driver lineup.

Verstappen has repeatedly reiterated his wish to focus on driving and to refrain from making any statements about his future for the time being. However, it is clear that he still intends to stay with Red Bull. Yet, the interest from Toto Wolff's team persists. George Russell even acknowledged Mercedes' interest in the world champion.

Marko Warns Wolff: ‘Don't Put Him Next to Max’

Helmut Marko follows the developments at Mercedes with interest but recently said there is no reason to believe that Verstappen will leave next year. However, the 82-year-old has a clear message for the German team. "Next to Max, everyone looks bad. It would be too soon for Antonelli to be Verstappen's teammate in his second year," he said via Auto, Motor und Sport.

While it is clear that Verstappen strongly prefers to stay with Red Bull Racing, the rumor mill about a possible switch persists. Italian sources reported that Toto Wolff's F1 team was in advanced talks with the Dutchman. The contact between both parties is warm, but there is certainly no agreement at this point.