Helmut Marko challenges Max Verstappen to secure Red Bull’s fifth consecutive drivers’ title, aiming to surpass Vettel’s remarkable record.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has set Max Verstappen the goal of securing a fifth consecutive F1 drivers’ title in 2025, a feat Sebastian Vettel failed to achieve.
Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive title with two races remaining in November in Las Vegas, equaling Vettel’s record.
Like Verstappen, Vettel won his four titles in four consecutive seasons with Red Bull before his dominance ended in 2014.
However, Vettel’s reign was largely halted by the introduction of hybrid regulations, which initially caused significant challenges for Red Bull with Renault as their engine supplier at the time.
“Of course not, 2024 wasn’t exceptional with the loss of the constructors’ title, but the focus was on staying healthy and celebrating further successes with Max Verstappen. And we achieved that.”
“No one else could have won this world championship for us. It’s clearly thanks to Max and his extraordinary abilities. Two years ago, he wouldn’t have been able to beat Lewis Hamilton or the Ferraris. Now, he has the maturity to know he must also drive with his position in the points in mind.”
“I hope we can secure a fifth consecutive world title this year. That wasn’t possible with Sebastian Vettel back then due to the new engine regulations.”
“This time, however, the regulations remain unchanged. On the other hand, this also means that all the other teams will be even closer, so I expect a very exciting battle among the top four teams.”
For this reason, Liam Lawson has been brought into the team in place of Sergio Perez. For Marko, there was no risk to take.
“Checo was still hoping to regain his old form, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Then he realized that a comeback wasn’t possible for him in this environment and that parting ways was the best option.”
With the regulations unchanged for the upcoming season, the championship is expected to be highly competitive between Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
“For me, of course, Max is the favorite. With our team’s composition, Verstappen is clearly number one. At Ferrari, there will be a battle between Hamilton and Leclerc, and Piastri won’t settle for a No. 2 role at McLaren. I’m not sure how things will unfold at Mercedes; it depends on Kimi Antonelli.”
“So, in some teams, there will be internal struggles, something I don’t think we’ll see with Liam Lawson.”
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Can Verstappen Achieve What Vettel Couldn’t for Red Bull? Can Verstappen Achieve What Vettel Couldn’t for Red Bull?
