How Max Verstappen reacted when asked about Sebastian Vettel returning to Red Bull in new role

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Max Verstappen is one of two four-time Red Bull Formula 1 champions and has forged a legacy over the last decade.

The Dutchman’s hopes of a fifth consecutive drivers’ championship in 2025 are slender, as he currently trails Oscar Piastri by 43 points at the top of the standings.

However, Verstappen clawed back a bigger advantage than that in 2022, coming from 47 points behind to win a second title.

The big question that remains is whether Red Bull can develop their car positively and give him a machine capable of beating McLaren.

Verstappen will love Helmut Marko’s Red Bull update comment after it was revealed that the team would be bringing more upgrades to the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix.

However, Verstappen has set off ‘alarm bells’ at Red Bull, and the team now fear that he could possibly switch Formula 1 teams ahead of 2026.

READ MORE: Max Verstappen ‘only’ likes answering questions about one topic in the F1 paddock

How Max Verstappen reacted when asked about Sebastian Vettel returning to Red Bull

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has been the man responsible for much of the team’s junior talent over the last few decades.

He deserves some credit for the success of Verstappen and the four-time champion who came before him, Sebastian Vettel.

However, the Austrian is getting to an age (82) now, where it makes sense to start identifying possible replacements. Vettel has been identified as a candidate.

When asked during Formula 1’s official pre-race press conference at the Austrian Grand Prix about the possibility of Vettel returning to Red Bull in an advisory role, Verstappen met the rumours with a positive response.

“It’s more than normal that someone who had achieved so much with Red Bull, brought up by them, there is always a spot available, right?” he said.

“Seb also kept a good relationship with Helmut [Marko] even when he left. I didn’t know they were talking, but I’m sure there is always a space for him.”

READ MORE: Max Verstappen can’t ignore what Andy Cowell has just said about Adrian Newey amid Red Bull uncertainty

Why Christian Horner’s latest Red Bull update will be music to Max Verstappen’s ears

Red Bull CEO and team principal Christian Horner is another man who has been at the team for decades and has been essential to their success.

The Briton has been linked with a move away from the Milton Keynes-based outfit and to Ferrari, but he recently responded to those links.

Horner’s Red Bull future update was music to Verstappen’s ears as it assured him that one of the most pivotal cogs in their operation has no intention of leaving.

Stability heading into the 2026 F1 regulations is crucial if the team wants to enjoy success, and Verstappen will be desperate for another title next year, particularly if he falls short in 2025.