Max Verstappen voiced his loyalty toward Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, amid reports the Austrian might have attended his final Grand Prix with the Milton Keynes squad.
Reports emerged during Saudi Arabian GP qualifying that Marko is now subject to an investigation by Red Bull relating to media leaks that have emerged in the wake of the prior investigation into allegations made against Team Principal Christian Horner.
The outcome of the investigation into Marko is unknown with proceedings ongoing, but if found guilty he could face disciplinary action and this comes just 24 hours after the female complainant against Horner was suspended.
Probed on the hypothetical exit of Marko shortly after claiming pole position in Jeddah, Verstappen was unwavering in his support of the Austrian.
“I have a lot of respect for Helmut [Marko] and what we have achieved together, it goes very far,” Verstappen said.
“Of course, my loyalty to him is very big and I’ve always expressed this to everyone within the team, everyone high up, that he’s an important part in my decision-making for all the time in the future as well within the team.
“It’s very important that he stays within the team, including of course everyone else, because you know it’s a whole team effort.
“It’s very important that we keep the key people together because I feel like if such an important pillar falls away, that’s also what I’ve said to the team that is not good for my situation as well.
“Helmut has to stay for sure. He has built this team together with Dietrich [Mateschitz] from day one and he’s always been very loyal to the team.
“I think it’s also very important that you give the man a lot of respect for what he has done.
“And that comes back also to loyalty and integrity.
“For sure, it’s important that he stays part of the team also for me.”
The new instalment in the Red Bull saga pours further fuel on the fire following Verstappen’s father Jos claimed Horner remaining at Red Bull “is not good for the team.”
That, coupled with Jos Verstappen reportedly holding a meeting with Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has speculation hinting that the Verstappen camp is uneasy with the overall situation at Red Bull.
Now, Marko’s position being potentially under threat, coupled with Max Verstappen’s support makes for a messy picture in what was once a harmonious Red Bull squad.
Marko hinted to Austrian Broadcaster ORF that his presence within the Red Bull setup at Grands Prix could be at an end, with his attendance at Round 3 in Australia in doubt.
“I’ll put it this way, it’s difficult to judge, or let’s put it this way, ultimately, I’ll decide for myself what I do,” he said.
““I think it’s such a complex issue. Again, we want peace in the team. This world championship will be difficult enough with 24 races and we have to concentrate on that.”
