Verstappen Remains Focused Amidst Speculation

Amidst swirling speculation regarding his future in Formula One, Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion for Red Bull, projected an air of calm. He stated that such considerations were not at the forefront of his mind and that he felt ‘very relaxed’.

Following the Bahrain Grand Prix the previous Sunday, Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, voiced concerns that the Dutch driver might depart at the conclusion of the current season.

Verstappen managed only a sixth-place finish, a week after securing victory in Japan. Oscar Piastri of McLaren secured the win from pole position, also achieving the fastest lap.

When questioned by an Italian reporter ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix about why Ferrari was not being mentioned as a potential destination alongside Mercedes and Aston Martin, Verstappen responded, “I don’t know.”

He further added, “I mean, honestly, many individuals are discussing it, but not me.”

“My sole focus is on my car and collaborating effectively with the team members. That is my only consideration within Formula One presently. I am very relaxed.”
Verstappen’s contract with exit options extends to 2028. He had maintained the championship lead for over two years, starting in May 2022, until Lando Norris of McLaren won the season-opening race in Australia.

The Red Bull driver trails Norris by a mere eight points, holding third position overall in the standings. However, McLaren has claimed victory in three of the four races held.

“I continue to work diligently, striving to enhance the car’s performance. Naturally, Bahrain was not a successful weekend for us, and I believe we were all quite disappointed,” Verstappen noted.

“We persist in our efforts to refine the car, generating innovative concepts to test. The level of competition is formidable. This is how I approach my weeks, consistently seeking to improve the situation.”

Max Verstappen addressed reports about his manager, Raymond Vermeulen, allegedly raising his voice at Marko following the Sakhir race.

“They were simply having a discussion regarding all aspects, which I believe is acceptable,” the champion clarified.

“People are free to interpret how discussions unfold. However, we were all undeniably frustrated with the outcome and the issues encountered during the race.

“Consequently, my manager Raymond and Helmut engaged in conversation, with (team boss) Christian (Horner) also joining. They collectively had a discussion, which I believe should be permitted. Ultimately, we all share a common concern.

“We are committed to the team, its members, and achieving favorable results. I believe this is entirely normal.”