Red Bull refuse to rule out sensational Max Verstappen exit on the eve of 2025 F1 season

Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko has cast doubt on Max Verstappen's future just days before the 2025 Formula 1 season gets underway.

This weekend, F1 will return with the Australian Grand Prix, which is set to take place around Albert Park in Melbourne.

Last season, Verstappen clinched his fourth title after fending off a late charge from McLaren star Lando Norris.

The Dutchman had a healthy lead but was being pushed by Norris after Red Bull suffered a sudden dip in form.

Heading into the new season, it is expected that McLaren will be the team to beat.

As a result of Red Bull's apparent struggle, rumours have linked Verstappen with an exit.

Speaking recently to Auto Motor und Sport, via Racing News 365, Red Bull advisor Marko admitted that Verstappen could walk away from the team.

He said: "It is no secret that Max's contract contains performance clauses.

"Max wants to win and he wants to feel that we are doing everything we can to achieve that."

Marko added: "That is a challenge for us. If he does not feel that everything is being done to give him the best possible car, then there is a risk - contract or no contract - that he might change his mind."

Max Verstappen is searching for his fifth F1 world title. Image: Getty

Last year, Verstappen was linked with a move to Mercedes when team boss Toto Wolff was searching for Lewis Hamilton's replacement.

Speaking in Australia, Wolff stated that Verstappen is currently off the radar.

He said: "We need to concentrate on our driver line-up. I don't flirt outside if I'm in a good relationship, and that is true for this year too. So at the moment that [a move for Verstappen] is not on any radar.

"I don't plan to shift my concentration away from these guys and make sure that George has some visibility very soon, or has a contract very soon."

Wolff eventually chose to put 18-year-old rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli in the vacant Mercedes seat for 2025 and onwards.