Helmut Marko Warns of Catastrophic Risk for Max Verstappen at Red Bull

Helmut Marko has expressed serious concerns over Max Verstappen’s situation as the Formula 1 season heads into the Canadian Grand Prix. Verstappen, the four-time drivers’ champion, recently picked up three penalty points after a collision with George Russell in Spain, raising his total to 11 points.

The FIA’s limit sits at 12 points in a rolling 12-month window. If Verstappen earns just one more point before some are rescinded, he risks being banned for one race, which could mean missing Red Bull’s home event at the Red Bull Ring in Austria.

After the Spanish Grand Prix at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Verstappen found himself under scrutiny following multiple incidents in the 2024 season, especially his battles with Lando Norris. The clash with George Russell not only earned him a 10-second time penalty and dropped him to tenth place in Spain, but also increased the pressure on Verstappen to avoid any further infractions. This incident drew parallels with other dramatic moments in the Spanish GP.

Marko described the possibility of Verstappen missing a race as a “catastrophe” for Red Bull, especially with the Austrian Grand Prix drawing near on June 29. In his Speedweek column, Marko explained how tensions built up during the Spanish race.

Verstappen was given hard tyres, a choice he didn’t want, and dealt with an early swerve on lap one that nearly caused a major accident. Later, Charles Leclerc collided with Verstappen’s car at over 300 km/h, an incident Marko considered extremely dangerous but overlooked by officials, echoing some of the Ferrari demands seen elsewhere this season.

Facing that pressure, Verstappen then became involved in the controversial tangle with Russell, his on-track rival from Mercedes. The stewards ruled that Verstappen was at fault for the collision, leading to the crucial addition of penalty points.

Verstappen had argued that the regulations did not require him to give up his position, but was told otherwise by race control. Marko emphasized that this accumulation of “bitter pills” left Verstappen frustrated but aware that any rash moves in Montreal could have dire consequences for himself and the team.

With the Canadian Grand Prix taking place on June 15, Verstappen must finish the weekend penalty-free. The day after the Red Bull Ring event in Austria, his first two penalty points will expire, reducing his risk slightly until further points are removed in October.

Marko remains hopeful that Verstappen will avoid trouble, pointing out that he does not expect the Dutch driver to make the same mistake twice with so much at stake. Verstappen’s current standing adds tension not just for Red Bull but also for the championship battle, as every race could influence both the driver and team championships.

The upcoming events in Canada and Austria will be closely watched by fans and teams. Verstappen looks to stay clear of further penalties and keep Red Bull’s hopes intact for the remainder of the season.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.