Horner reveals Marko's initial reluctance to sign Verstappen at Red Bull
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 8:30 AM
Last updated Sep 28, 2026
Christian Horner claims in his upcoming autobiography that Helmut Marko was initially against signing Max Verstappen for Red Bull. Horner states that Marko considered Verstappen's father, Jos, a problem, referring to him as 'a nightmare.' This detail contrasts with the common narrative that Marko was keen on Verstappen. As Verstappen currently performs well, finishing second at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Horner's revelations highlight the complex dynamics within Red Bull Racing as both he and Marko have left the team. Marko's departure followed a season marked by controversy, and he had previously denied certain claims made against him by Horner, accusing him of dishonesty.
- •Horner's book claims Marko opposed signing Verstappen initially.
- •Marko described Jos Verstappen as 'a nightmare' during discussions.
- •Verstappen finished second at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
- •Marko left Red Bull after the conclusion of the last season.
- •Horner states he often had to 'mop up' after Marko's decisions.
- 8:30 AMYahoo Sports — Horner claims Marko didn't want Verstappen at Red Bull: 'We don't need this one'
"Christian Horner says Helmut Marko did not want Max Verstappen at Red Bull at first. In his upcoming autobiography Drive, the former Red Bull team principal writes that Marko was reluctant to bring the teenage Dutchman into the team, and that the problem was his father, Jos.
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