Red Bull has suggested it’s not concerned about an approach from Mercedes for Max Verstappen, citing that performance is what motivates the reigning champion.
Mercedes is on the search for a driver to partner George Russell from next season after the shock announcement that Lewis Hamilton will depart for Ferrari in 2025.
Mercedes Team Principal admitted that it had been compromised with the timing, but he hinted that contracts could be broken on the condition all parties reach an agreement.
Verstappen is tied to Red Bull through 2028 and said he can’t envisage leaving the Austrian outfit; however, he did admit that he could not close the door on a potential move.
The Dutchman has been aligned with Red Bull his entire F1 career and has capitalised on the team’s recent dominance to amass 53 victories and become a three-time champion.
Although Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko reveals there are clauses in Verstappen’s deal, he can’t foresee a blockbuster wage packet being enough to tempt him to leave.
Asked about the chances of Verstappen not fulfilling his current long-term agreement with Red Bull, Marko told Servus TV: “As in every Formula 1 contract, there are clauses if certain success quality criteria are not met. These are also included in Max’s contract.
“I don’t think an incomprehensible amount of money is an issue for Max. If we are not in a position to provide him with a car that is capable of winning…of course he’s interested in success as a racing driver. You don’t get any younger.
“And if he doesn’t see the light with Red Bull and these criteria come into play, then it’s quite clear that he’ll look around. But where would there be something better?”
Red Bull will have to decide on who partners Verstappen next season at some stage this year with Sergio Perez out of contract at the end of 2024 and his future in the balance.
Despite claiming a career-best second place in the Drivers’ Championship, Perez endured a tumultuous campaign last term that saw him trail 290 points behind his team-mate.
Marko has clarified that Red Bull will assess Perez’s form over the nascent races of the season but states that a resolution is unlikely to be communicated in the coming months.
Pressed on when a choice can be expected regarding Perez, Marko replied: “Perez still has a contract for 2024: it’s up to him.
“If he drives in similar form to how he finished the last races [of 2023], then we can easily talk about a further extension.
“[Daniel] Ricciardo has to show that he has [Yuki] Tsunoda clearly under control [at RB]. Then he might be a candidate.
“But you asked for a date. I would say: after the summer break, you could already have certain considerations ready.”
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