Helmut Marko reveals Max Verstappen's future after Formula 1

Over the years, Verstappen's long-term commitment to Formula 1 has been a topic of speculation. His frustration with certain aspects of the sport, such as the introduction of sprint races and events like the Las Vegas Grand Prix, which he previously criticised as being "99 per cent show, one per cent sport," has been evident.

The 26-year-old Dutchman, whose contract with Red Bull extends until the end of the 2028 season, will be 31 by then. Unlike veterans like Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen has expressed a desire not to prolong his Formula 1 career into his late 30s and early 40s.

Verstappen has various interests outside Formula 1, including sim racing. However, according to Marko, it's one of motorsport's most iconic events that might entice Verstappen once he hangs up his Formula 1 helmet.

"First of all, I'm not looking for a new Max because Max is unique, and it will be difficult for anyone to be his team-mate," Marko stated to grandprix247.com.

“Maybe Liam Lawson or Arvid Lindblad will be ready in two or three years for Red Bull Racing, and I'm not sure if Max will be racing at the time.

"If Max feels he doesn't enjoy F1 anymore, he doesn't want it, he will come to us and say, 'Thank you, that's it.'

"He will stay in racing (after leaving F1).

"I guess one of his dreams is to go to Le Mans with (father) Jos. That will be an experience.

"I don't want to be the team principal there because of those two strong characters, but it could be a fantastic experience."

Marko also drew comparisons between Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel, the two world champions to have driven for Red Bull. While reluctant to share the unique traits of each, the veteran Austrian hinted at how the German and Dutch drivers differed in their approach upon getting in the car.

"Each driver is different and we don't really compare, but Seb is a driver who works into each detail and needs a lot of technical feedback before he goes fast," Marko explained.

"But once he has everything under control, he's delivering.

"Max is a more natural driver. He just jumps in the car and is quick. Max is just about racing.

"You know, after a grand prix, he jumps on his sim racing seat, which is very difficult for me to understand but he likes it.

"He's also very interested in sports. Max knows a lot about football, he's completely focused on the sports world and the sports personalities.

“Both Seb and Max have their own opinion and are not shy to speak out.

"Seb like Max, just wants to have the best car and he lives his own life.

"But the commitment of Max is so unbelievable. The greatest advantage of Max is he doesn't need any warm-up."

The next event on the 2024 Formula 1 calendar is the Hungarian Grand Prix, set to take place from 19-21 July. This will be the 13th race of the season, held over 70 laps of the 4.381-kilometre Hungaroring in Budapest on Sunday, 21 July.