Marko: Verstappen's contract has a loaded exit trigger
Red Bull's advisor admits the four-time champion’s deal hinges on competitiveness, not loyalty—with Mercedes' Antonelli lurking.
Helmut Marko has confirmed that Max Verstappen’s contract includes a performance-based exit clause, with the four-time champion’s priority squarely on competitiveness over loyalty. Marko’s blunt admission came as Red Bull’s early-season struggles—including a 12-point deficit to Mercedes after three races—risk triggering the clause. The clause, embedded in Verstappen’s deal, allows him to walk if the team fails to meet performance benchmarks, a provision Marko now admits is active.
