Red Bull’s Marko claims Toto Wolff’s attempt to recruit Verstappen for Mercedes will fail. Despite Wolff’s efforts, Verstappen’s loyalty and past disputes make his move unlikely, preserving the F1 status quo.
Marko: “Wolff will try to snatch Verstappen for Mercedes F1, but he won’t succeed.” The Red Bull Motorsport advisor hinted that Mercedes F1 would definitely attempt to lure Max Verstappen to replace Lewis Hamilton.
Dr. Helmut Marko, who secured Verstappen’s services until the end of 2028 with Red Bull Racing, is “not naive” about potential poaching efforts but is confident the Dutchman will not yield.
The Austrian believes Verstappen will reject any advances due to previous “accusations” made by team director Toto Wolff against him.
“Wolff will try, but he won’t succeed.”
“Max has a good memory and hasn’t forgotten Mercedes’ accusations. The Silverstone crash in 2021 and the season finale at Abu Dhabi are examples.”
Similarly, Marko thinks Daniel Ricciardo could be approached, but the Australian’s contract is also “solid,” according to Marko.
Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari in 2025 has rejuvenated a driver market that had stagnated for the first time in F1 history between 2023 and 2024.
“This is the best thing that could happen to Formula 1 right now,” says Marko.
“There are two reasons for this: the fascination with Ferrari and Hamilton’s lost faith in Mercedes. I think this transfer will test the friendly relations between Wolff and Fred Vasseur. Wolff has always been connected with Vasseur in Formula 2, and now he’s doing this…”
How does Marko view the Leclerc/Hamilton duel shaping up in 2025?
“Leclerc has an edge in a single lap. Hamilton, on the other hand, is stronger over a full year and will politically establish himself as Ferrari’s global superstar.”
Meanwhile, Stefano Domenicali also praised “definitely a very interesting news, which received an extraordinary response, not only in Italy but also worldwide.”
“This guarantees an extension of the attention on our F1 world even for next year, very positive, certainly. But I believe the effect will also be significant for what happens on the track within Ferrari, within the Mercedes team, because the dynamics will change, relationships will change, and it will benefit the interests of our championship.”
Former Ferrari CEO Luca Di Montezemolo also commented, hoping the arrival of the Mercedes driver could not only benefit Ferrari’s competitiveness but also shine a spotlight on the Italian team.
“Hamilton is a great champion, he will want to do everything he can to end his career by winning the world championship. With Leclerc seeking his first title, it’s going to be fun. But with two number one drivers, having a winning car becomes even more crucial. Otherwise, this choice could prove to be a big risk.”
Marko Doubts Wolff’s Bid to Lure Verstappen to Mercedes. Marko Doubts Wolff’s Bid to Lure Verstappen to Mercedes
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