Max Verstappen has dismissed concerns that he may leave Red Bull Racing, despite team adviser Helmut Marko expressing fears that the four-time champion might depart if the team doesn’t improve.
Verstappen’s response came after a tense conversation with his manager Raymond Vermeulen and Marko in the garage following their recent Bahrain GP loss. The Dutchman played down the rumors, stating that he is focused on turning things around and improving the car.
“I’m not thinking about it, I’m just going race by race,” Verstappen said. “Hopefully, it’ll be better than Bahrain, if it can be a bit in the middle of the two [with Suzuka] it will be better.”
Verstappen denied that team dynamics had contributed to their recent struggles and stressed his commitment to the team. He also poured scorn on rumors that he might join Aston Martin next year, stating that such talk is “flattering” for the team.
Fernando Alonso later chimed in, saying that Verstappen’s presence at Red Bull would be a significant boost for the team’s future prospects. The Spanish driver believes that his own contract extension last year demonstrates the team’s growth and trajectory.
With Red Bull facing stiff competition from rival teams, Verstappen’s response will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Source: https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-responds-red-bull-exit-fears/10714247