Helmut Marko goes against Max Verstappen with Red Bull prediction

Helmut Marko has indirectly countered Max Verstappen's suggestion that his enjoyment of F1 may not return this season, insisting the Dutchman's passion will be reignited once Red Bull makes the RB22 competitive.

Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations, branding them "anti-racing" and "Formula E on steroids" whilst flirting with quitting F1 at the end of the year.

His frustration has been compounded by Red Bull's dismal start to the season, with the Milton Keynes-based squad languishing in sixth place in the constructors' standings with just 16 points from three rounds.

The four-time F1 drivers' champion has claimed that he would happily accept fighting for seventh or eighth if the regulations delivered proper racing.

But Marko, speaking to Krone Sport, believes Verstappen's mood will shift once the team address the RB22's fundamental issues.

"Red Bull has identified some problems with the car and found solutions," the Austrian said. "Once the car is competitive again, Max's enjoyment will return, and his mood will improve.

"This will be especially true if they consider some changes to the regulations for 2027, because it's clear to everyone, not just Max, that there needs to be more racing than economy runs."

Mercedes remain favourites despite upgrades battle

Red Bull has been developing its own answer to Ferrari's "Macarena" wing, but it is not the only team bringing significant developments to Miami.

McLaren is arriving with what has been described as a completely new car, and Scuderia is expected to introduce a 50 per cent facelift on the SF-26.

Asked whether the championship could now begin anew with these major upgrade packages, Marko remained cautious about Red Bull's chances of challenging Mercedes' early dominance.

"I don't think so," he said. "Mercedes is far too settled; they have a great chassis, a powerful engine, and haven't shown everything yet — they certainly still have an ace up their sleeve. For me, Kimi Antonelli and George Russell remain the big favourites."