Helmut Marko clarifies Max Verstappen's Red Bull exit clause

Max Verstappen's position within Formula 1 has long been the subject of intense speculation, particularly regarding the architecture of his Red Bull Racing contract. While the Dutchman remains bound to the Milton Keynes-based outfit until the end of 2028, persistent reports have suggested that performance-based exit clauses are woven into the agreement—clauses that could fundamentally alter the competitive landscape of the sport. Recently, former Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko addressed these claims head-on, offering crucial clarity on what has become one of the most intriguing contractual situations in modern Formula 1.

Marko's initial denial and subsequent clarification

When confronted by Austrian outlet oe24 about his alleged involvement in negotiating exit clauses within Verstappen's contract, Marko initially responded cryptically: "None of that is true." This statement, however, required immediate clarification. When pressed further, Marko revealed a more nuanced reality: "What do you mean? I negotiated the contract. We've always had a fair relationship, and it's clear that we can't tie Max down if the new engine doesn't work. It was the longest-term Formula 1 contract ever signed anyway."

This response effectively confirmed what many in the paddock already suspected—that exit clauses do indeed exist within Verstappen's agreement, though the specifics remain closely guarded. Marko's acknowledgment that "we can't tie Max down" suggests Red Bull understood the necessity of providing an escape route for their star driver, particularly given the uncertainties surrounding Formula 1's regulatory landscape.

The tiered exit clause structure

According to reports from German publication Sport Bild, Verstappen's contract contains multiple performance-related exit clauses triggered at specific championship milestones. The structure reportedly operates as follows:

2026 Clause: Should Verstappen find himself outside the top two positions in the Drivers' Championship by the summer break of 2026, he retains the right to terminate his contract at the end of that season and depart for 2027 without Red Bull receiving compensation.

2027 Clause: The conditions become even more stringent for the following year. If Verstappen is not leading the championship outright by the 2027 summer break, he can unilaterally walk away at the conclusion of that season.

These clauses demonstrate an extraordinary degree of contractual leverage held by Verstappen, placing immense pressure on Red Bull to deliver competitive machinery immediately following major regulatory changes.

The 2026 Power Unit gamble

Central to understanding these exit clauses is the context of Formula 1's sweeping 2026 regulation overhaul. New power unit regulations will fundamentally reshape the competitive hierarchy, introducing unprecedented uncertainty. Marko's candid admission that "the new engine is a risk" underscores why Red Bull likely agreed to such favorable terms for Verstappen. The four-time world champion is essentially hedging his bets, ensuring that if the new power unit fails to deliver competitive performance, he won't be trapped in a multi-year commitment to a declining team.

"That's logical. Max wants to keep his chance of breaking all the records," Marko explained when questioned whether Verstappen would seek opportunities elsewhere if Red Bull ceased to be competitive.

Verstappen's unmatched contractual position

Few drivers in Formula 1 history have enjoyed such contractual autonomy while simultaneously locked into a long-term agreement. Verstappen's position is described as "comfortable" and exceptionally strong, offering him pathways to explore alternative opportunities should Red Bull falter during the critical 2026-2027 regulatory transition. This structure effectively allows the reigning champion to assess the market and potentially move to a title-contending team without incurring substantial transfer fees.

Despite these provisions, Verstappen has publicly expressed his intention to fulfill his contract. Nevertheless, the existence of these escape routes signals that Verstappen will not compromise his championship aspirations for the sake of loyalty, cementing his status as Formula 1's most powerful negotiator.