Dr Helmut Marko has pushed back against sensational rumours claiming Aston Martin is attempting to lure Max Verstappen with an astronomical offer.
Recent reports suggested that Aston Martin, much like Mercedes' Toto Wolff in 2024, is considering long-term bids exceeding $1 billion to secure the services of the quadruple world champion.
"That's all well and good," Red Bull's F1 advisor Marko told Sport Bild. "But Max has a contract with us until the end of 2028."
Marko declined to comment on whether Verstappen's contract includes exit clauses that could allow him to leave under certain circumstances.
"I don't make any statements about the content of the contract," he stated.
"But we are confident that we can give Max a good car.
"Based on the data, our engineers are optimistic. And I also know how loyal and grateful Max is to Red Bull. That's why he will be a Red Bull driver in 2026—and as a five-time world champion as well," the 81-year-old added with a smile.
Despite Marko's confidence, he acknowledged that 2024 will be another challenging season, with teams like McLaren and Ferrari posing strong threats.
"Both teams had the best foundations in 2024," said Marko. "They can build on their strong foundations now because they did well on most circuits last season.
"But none of their drivers stood out for me."
Marko pointed out weaknesses among Red Bull's rivals, including Lando Norris' struggles under pressure, Oscar Piastri's inconsistency, and Ferrari's lineup of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.
"(Charles) Leclerc is good in qualifying, but he makes a lot of mistakes in the races," Marko said. "And Lewis (Hamilton) still has the speed, but over a whole season? I have my doubts about that.
"Even if Hamilton has a good Ferrari and we only give Max a mediocre Red Bull, I would put my money on Max. And if Hamilton's start at Ferrari does not go as he had hoped, he should be careful not to get into a negative spiral like he did at Mercedes."
Marko concluded by praising Verstappen's unique abilities.
"No one can hold a candle to Max," he asserted. "Not Lewis, not Lando Norris. He gets 1 to 2 tenths out of the car per lap that no other driver can get.
"Now it's up to us to build him a car that lets him compete for victories, not only sometimes but consistently. Our working window must become larger," Marko emphasised.
