Helmut Marko gives update on 2026 second driver decision timeline

Red Bull motorsport adviser Helmut Marko has provided an update on the timeline that the team has in place to decide who will drive alongside Max Verstappen in 2026.

The four-time champion confirmed his commitment to Red Bull for 2026 after rumours linking him to a move to Mercedes next year, but his team-mate is yet to be confirmed. 

Yuki Tsunoda took the spot alongside the Dutchman ahead of the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, replacing Liam Lawson after just two race weekends. But the Japanese driver has not been able to extract the same performance from the RB21 as Verstappen, although it is worth noting that Tsunoda has not had the same specification of car as his team-mate. He received a new floor ahead of the summer break, and now just waits for the final few components to match Verstappen’s.

Red Bull has struggled to find Verstappen a team-mate in the last 18 months.

“We’ve extended the options, or rather, the drivers have extended them with us. So, around September or October, we want to have a few more races to observe, and then we’ll make the decisions,” Marko explained to Sky Germany at Zandvoort.

Tsunoda spoke about the difference in specification ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix.

“Maybe Helmut’s thinking in the background [about sending me back to Racing Bulls]. I never know what he’s thinking, to be honest.

Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Mark Thompson / Getty Images

“But for now, I understand he’s looking for me to show the performance. I think last two races, actually, like I said, after I got upgrades, there’s some recognition from that performance. Actually, there’s a huge difference before that. And I think that helps him and myself to give a bit more time to see how this situation evolves.

“I think he supported me quite a lot. But obviously, he’s also quite a straightforward guy. He’s here for the team and he wants to have points as much as possible. So, I need to perform for sure.

“But if I understand it correctly, he’s still waiting a bit of time to define what’s good for Red Bull. And I think let’s see for Racing Bulls or whatever. They’re performing currently quite well. And it’s a team that I have been for a long time. So, obviously, my main goal is to still stick with Red Bull. But let’s see.”