Verstappen currently has a contract to race with the Milton Keynes-based squad until 2028, but his future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks off the back of the turmoil at the top of Red Bull.
Amid what appears to be a power battle for control of the Red Bull empire and its F1 team, suggestions at the weekend that the company’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko could be forced out prompted some strong words from Verstappen.
He suggested that if Marko went, Red Bull would have a “problem” as that could also leave him deciding that he no longer wished to remain at the squad.
Speaking in Saudi Arabia, Verstappen said: “I’ve always clearly indicated that he [Marko] has to stay. I can’t continue without him.”
Verstappen’s strong words on the matter were viewed by many as a clear political message to Red Bull’s senior management about the consequences of taking action against Marko.
The Dutchman has, however, been less equivocal in his support of team principal Christian Horner – whom his father Jos has openly called to be dismissed to avoid the squad tearing itself apart.
Horner is well aware of the significance of Verstappen’s public backing for Marko, and his claims that he would not wish to stay if he lost his close ally.
