Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has relit the possibility of Max Verstappen joining Mercedes in the future.
The rumours are not new as the Dutchman was believed to be as far as in talks with the German manufacturer in 2017 about a possible move.
It soon died down though after Verstappen signed a new big-money deal with Red Bull until the end of 2020 but, as the team starts a new partnership with Honda, one admission could spark fresh interest.
“There is certainly a performance clause in Max’s contract,” Marko told Auto Bild. “[Mercedes motorsport boss] Toto Wolff regularly calls him and his father, Jos.”
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It would seem likely that the clause relates more to the competitiveness of Red Bull than it does Verstappen.
If so, should the team still appear unable to close the gap to the front as this year progresses, it may just raise the possibility of the 21-year-old looking at the seat currently filled by Valtteri Bottas.
Such a move would also face two hurdles, first being Lewis Hamilton and the other being a lifelong rival of Verstappen, Mercedes junior Esteban Ocon.
After putting the idea in the open though, Marko quickly played down its likelihood.
“I am relaxed about it. He feels good with us and if we give him world championship material, I will not worry that he will stay,” the Austrian added.