Marko Responds to Max Verstappen After McLaren and Ferrari’s Surprise F1 Title Claim

Helmut Marko reacts to Max Verstappen’s bold claims about Ferrari and McLaren’s F1 potential, acknowledging Verstappen’s unparalleled ability to secure Red Bull’s 2024 crown amid fierce competition.

Verstappen’s Fourth F1 Title Amid Heated Rivalry

The 2024 Formula 1 season delivered one of the most competitive grids in recent memory, but it was Max Verstappen who emerged as the champion for the fourth consecutive year. Despite Red Bull’s diminished dominance compared to their 2023 performance, Verstappen showcased his unmatched skills by sealing the title at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, extinguishing the faint hopes of Lando Norris and McLaren.

However, Verstappen sparked debate when he claimed he could have secured his title even earlier had he been driving a McLaren MCL38 or Ferrari SF-24, a statement that drew a candid response from Red Bull senior advisor Helmut Marko.

Verstappen: McLaren or Ferrari Could Have Delivered Sooner

Reflecting on his championship-winning campaign, Verstappen was asked if he could have replicated the same success in rival machinery.

“Yes, even earlier… So further ahead,” Verstappen boldly stated. “With Ferrari, pretty much the same, I think. The Mercedes? No, I think that would have been trickier.”

These remarks highlighted Verstappen’s confidence in his abilities while also subtly criticizing the inconsistency of Red Bull’s 2024 car.

Helmut Marko: “Only Max Could Win This Title for Us”

Verstappen’s comments reached Helmut Marko, who was asked by Austrian outlet OE24 whether such statements were acceptable. Marko’s response was surprisingly supportive.

“Yes, because he’s certainly right,” Marko admitted. “No other driver than Max would have won the World Championship for us this year. He certainly didn’t have the best car.”

Marko’s acknowledgment emphasized the challenges Red Bull faced throughout 2024. Unlike the record-breaking 2023 season, the emergence of McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes as race-winning teams made Verstappen’s triumph all the more remarkable.

Red Bull’s Slipping Dominance in 2024

Red Bull began 2024 with familiar dominance, reminiscent of their near-invincible RB19 in 2023. However, their form waned as rival teams caught up. McLaren, led by Lando Norris, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, capitalized on the narrowing performance gap.

Verstappen, despite being limited to just one win in his last 12 races, navigated through this stiff competition to clinch the title. Seven different drivers claimed victories in 2024, highlighting the sport’s newfound unpredictability.

Verstappen’s Pursuit of Five in a Row

The upcoming F1 2025 season, the last under current regulations, promises to be a classic. Grid convergence has created one of the most competitive fields in years, setting the stage for intense battles.

Marko remains confident in Verstappen’s potential for a fifth title.

“We just have to provide him with the right car,” Marko explained. “A car that is not as erratic as the current one, which is consistently at the front.”

Red Bull will need to address the shortcomings of their 2024 car, ensuring they stay ahead in what could be the most challenging season yet.

Celebrating Verstappen’s Achievement

While Verstappen’s focus has shifted toward the 2025 season, there was plenty of celebration following his Las Vegas triumph.

“There wasn’t much time,” Marko revealed. “The award ceremony wasn’t until midnight, but it was still a lot of fun at the race track. After that, we continued individually.”

Marko, known for his occasional criticism of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, admitted that the event provided the perfect atmosphere for a championship celebration.

“When the lights are switched on, then it works. That’s when the romance is there,” Marko said, describing the vibrant city as “the ideal place to party.”

Qatar and Abu Dhabi Finales

Although the championship has been decided, two races remain on the 2024 calendar:

1. Qatar Grand Prix: A track that demands precision and consistency, giving Red Bull a chance to showcase their strengths.
2. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: The season finale, where Verstappen has often excelled, offers a chance to conclude 2024 on a high note.

A Bond Beyond Racing

Marko and Verstappen’s relationship extends beyond the racetrack. While the two have yet to reconnect since Las Vegas, Marko shared plans for an upcoming meeting in Dubai.

“We will go out to eat in Dubai in peace,” Marko revealed, hinting at a relaxed catch-up before the season’s penultimate round in Qatar.

Conclusion

Max Verstappen’s bold claims about rival teams’ potential highlight his confidence in his ability to adapt and excel. Yet, as Helmut Marko rightly pointed out, only Verstappen could have delivered Red Bull’s fourth consecutive F1 Drivers’ Championship in such a fiercely competitive season.

With 2025 shaping up to be a season for the ages, Red Bull will need to rise to the challenge, providing Verstappen with a car worthy of his unmatched talent. For now, fans can savor the remarkable journey of a driver who continues to redefine greatness in Formula 1.