Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has hit back at claims Max Verstappen could influence the team’s decision as to who replaces Daniel Ricciardo for 2019.
Following the Australian surprise news that he will join Renault, it was reported the Dutchman could veto the arrival of Carlos Sainz, the driver many see as first in line for a promotion to the senior team.
Given Ricciardo has also replaced the Spaniard at the French manufacturer, to see the 23-year-old go in the other direction would also make the most sense but given Sainz and Verstappen’s history together at Toro Rosso, some have doubts.
“The rumours that point to the veto of Verstappen of Sainz, are bullsh*t,” the straight-talking Austrian told Spain’s El Confidencial.
“Red Bull is the only one that decides on its driver pairing.”
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As for Carlos, he does appear to have two options on the table, Red Bull or McLaren, potentially teaming up with his idol and mentor Fernando Alonso.
“I’m ready to beat anyone in the field,” Sainz said in Hungary. “My racing spirit and my competitiveness and my self-confidence tell me that I can take over anyone.
“Probably Fernando would be the biggest ask that you could have on the grid, that’s for sure. But yeah, I would feel ready for anything.”
