Christian Horner’s upcoming autobiography Drive has already triggered a storm, claiming that Red Bull Motorsport adviser Helmut Marko resisted signing Max Verstappen.
Marko Calls Horner’s Story a Lie
During an interview with oe24, Marko dismissed Horner’s allegation as an absolute lie. He said the driver was first approached at 11½ years old and that Jos Verstappen deemed the move premature. Marko added that the team’s doctor sided with the family’s hesitation.
Schumacher Rounds Up the Defenders
Former F1 driver and Sky Sports analyst Ralf Schumacher defended Marko, stating that the Red Bull chapter unfolded gradually. Verstappen’s karting success eventually convinced the squad to revisit a partnership in Formula 3, paving the way for his later ascension.
Horner–Marko Rivalry Heats Up Again
Marko asserts it was Horner who blocked Verstappen’s historic 2016 promotion to Red Bull’s senior team, citing the driver’s Spanish Grand Prix debut in Barcelona as evidence of their clash. With Drive slated for release, the debate over who first championed the world‑class driver remains unresolved.
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