For the first time since his entry into Formula 1, Max Verstappen has to do without Helmut Marko in the paddock or even within the team he drives for this season. But, Verstappen said in Melbourne on Thursday, the two still have regular contact after Marko’s departure from Red Bull.
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The Austrian left the team at the end of last season at his own request; he felt he had had enough. As a result, the octogenarian will mostly follow the performances of Verstappen and company from the couch this season, at home in Graz. Something to get used to, then, also for the driver who had such a close bond with Marko.
Verstappen: “We shared many moments together, so it really feels a bit different in the garage.” Continuing with a grin: “There are a few fewer Austrian jokes now. But I still have contact with him anyway. That’s not even so much about the car, but just about life in general.”
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Meanwhile, the Dutchman maintains his sporting focus. “Because we also have to look forward, I have to focus on performing.” Out of sight does not mean out of mind, however, it seems. “Because Helmut and I have a great relationship and so we keep in touch anyway.”
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