Helmut Marko: Max in Mercedes? Interesting option

In a new interview, Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko commented on the events of recent days, including rumors about Max Verstappen’s possible transfer to Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton.

Question: Mr. Marko, what else could be celebrated in Dubai than Jos Verstappen’s 52nd birthday?
Helmut Marko: From a sporting point of view, the first weekend of the season in Bahrain was successful for Red Bull. Things also went well for our young riders.

Question: What conclusions can be drawn after the race in Bahrain?
Helmut Marko: The gap is closing. I was surprised by Mercedes’ problems in the race and the reliability of the cars. It’s incredible that everyone finished in the first race.

Question: Yuki Tsunoda’s refusal to let his teammate Daniel Ricciardo through amused the crowd. Did you take any measures after the finish?
Helmut Marko: The performance could have been avoided. After the race I spoke with Yuki. With the right strategy he could have finished tenth.

Question: Franz Tost believes that the circuit in Bahrain is not very suitable for Red Bull, which means that Max Verstappen’s lead will be larger in other stages. He is right?
Helmut Marko: In Jeddah a completely different type of circuit awaits us with fast corners and different asphalt. I will be happy if our car turns out to be as fast as in the first stage.

Question: After the finish you said Max could have gone faster?
Helmut Marko: Max rode the fastest lap closer to the finish at the limit, and a lot could have happened before that. In any case, Max was in the lead, so it was easier for him than for the others.

Question: Franz Tost believes Red Bull can win all 24 races this year…
Helmut Marko: Come on! Last year we saw that this wouldn’t work. Our main goal is the championship title.

Question: Is it true that Jos Verstappen is already in talks with Toto Wolff about a switch to Mercedes?
Helmut Marko: You will receive no comment from me about this.

Question: But is it true that Max can end his contract with the team early if you leave Red Bull?
Helmut Marko: I will also answer “No comment” to this question. The point is that there is a lot of trust between Max and me.

Question: Apparently the trust between the Verstappen family and Christian Horner has weakened. Will he keep his position as team leader?
Helmut Marko: I won’t comment on this until the case is finally closed.

Q: Isn’t it closed yet?
Helmut Marko: Okay, I worded it wrong. I will continue to adhere to the phrase “No comments!”

Question: What do you say about Gerhard Berger’s theory that Horner stays in the team, you and Adrian Newey leave and Max goes to Mercedes?
Helmut Marko: Interesting option.