Red Bull feared Formula 1 rival and current pacesetter Mercedes would snatch Max Verstappen for the 2021 season, according to Helmut Marko.
Verstappen signed a new deal this week which will keep him at Red Bull until 2023 – Marko says that deal was a “very important step” as they believed Mercedes would approach the Dutchman to replace Lewis Hamilton, should the six-time champion move to Ferrari.
Marko told Auto Motor und Sport that rumours surrounding Hamilton and whether he is mulling a switch to Ferrari led to Red Bull locking down Verstappen for the foreseeable future.
“It was difficult for us to estimate what the exact story is between Ferrari and Hamilton,” said the Austrian.
“But it was clear that Mercedes must act if Hamilton were to go to Ferrari in 2021. Max would have been the first driver they [Mercedes] would target.
“That [new contract] was a very important step for us. Now we can look to the future with more confidence.”
Marko also explained that the new deal brings important stability and could prove key to securing Honda’s long term future as an engine supplier – so far Honda has only committed to the 2021 season.
“Honda have taken the news about the contract extension positively,” he added. “Max is a priority for Honda. They love his aggressive driving style and his open nature.
“Discussions with them will take place soon. I’m waiting for an appointment to find out when I have to fly to Japan.”
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