Marko: F1 will find 'new star' if Verstappen leaves, but 2026 rules threaten 'pure racing'

Helmut Marko has backed Formula 1's ability to discover a 'new star' if Max Verstappen were to leave the sport, but the former Red Bull advisor shares the Dutchman's frustration with the 2026 regulations, arguing that 'pure racing' is at risk.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's future has been a central talking point since the 2026 season began. A difficult RB22, high-profile departures like race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to McLaren, and his own discontent with the energy management-heavy rules have fueled speculation about an early exit. Marko's comments add weight to the idea that while F1 would survive, the current direction of the sport could be driving away its biggest star.

The details:

• Verstappen questioned after the Japanese GP whether racing under the 2026 rules was “worth it.” Minor tweaks were made for Miami, shifting the power split from 50:50 toward 60:40 in favor of internal combustion, but Verstappen remains unsatisfied: “You still need to go a bit slower in places to go faster.”
• Marko told Sport.de: “Max’s departure would certainly be a great loss, but … when someone leaves, a new one comes along and becomes the star. But it’s not just about whether Max likes it. It’s about racing.”
• The Austrian also criticized the 2026 rule tweaks, saying they are “far from sufficient to get the premier class back on track.” He supports FIA President Ben Sulayem's suggestion that V8 engines could return by 2030: “The sooner it comes, the better.”
• Red Bull is reportedly eyeing Oscar Piastri as a potential successor, while Verstappen increasingly participates in endurance racing, including the Nürburgring 24h this weekend.

What's next:

The FIA and F1 continue to debate rule adjustments for 2027, with further power unit balance changes expected. Marko’s eagerness for a V8 return signals that even senior figures within the sport see the current path as unsustainable. Whether Verstappen stays or goes, the pressure to deliver 'pure racing' is mounting.