After a disappointing DNF at the Melbourne Grand Prix, Red Bull’s senior advisor, Helmut Marko, revealed a bit too much about Max Verstappen’s activities between races, specifically his skiing in Japan.
Verstappen’s early exit in Melbourne thwarted his attempt to set a new F1 record of 10 consecutive wins, a setback he aimed to overcome at the Japanese Grand Prix.
Verstappen has a history of success at Suzuka and was looking forward to adding another victory to his record.
However, Marko’s comments on Verstappen’s skiing raised eyebrows, considering Verstappen’s significant contract with Red Bull, which prohibits engaging in dangerous sports, including skiing, to avoid injury risks.
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Marko admitted to OE24 that Verstappen was skiing in Japan, boasting of the “marvelous, best deep snow in the world.”
This admission was surprising, given that Verstappen had stated he hadn’t skied in five years due to the risks involved and the explicit ban in his contract, which lasts until the end of 2028.
When confronted about the breach of contract, Marko conceded he might have disclosed too much, highlighting the sensitive nature of Verstappen’s extracurricular activities.
This isn’t the first time Verstappen’s adventurous spirit has been curtailed by contractual obligations.
In September 2023, he was denied participation in the Red Bull Formula Nürburgring event, an opportunity to drive an F1 car around the challenging Nordschleife, due to the same clause.
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Verstappen shared his disappointment at the Canadian Grand Prix last year, revealing that it was Marko who directly opposed the idea, citing potential risks.
These incidents underscore the delicate balance between athletes’ personal interests and professional obligations, especially in high-stakes environments like Formula 1, where physical condition and safety are paramount.
Despite the setbacks and restrictions, Verstappen remains focused on his racing career, aiming for continued success on the track while navigating the complexities of his contract and the expectations of his team.