Red Bull does not have enough money for both Verstappen and Hamilton

Verstappen and Hamilton

Rumors of Red Bull’s interest in Hamilton circulated during the season finale in Abu Dhabi in late November. Both sides initially denied any rumors, but eventually Horner confirmed that he had indeed contacted Hamilton. But according to the team boss, he had done so through an old number and never got hold of the seven-time world champion.

Anthony Hamilton

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko says he was aware that team boss Christian Horner had contacted Hamilton earlier in the year after Anthony Hamilton – the father of – suggested that the two talk to each other.

“Christian informed me and showed me the text message he had received, but I said to him, ‘Hamilton and Max, that won’t work.’ There was too much action and how shall I put it… tension. And on the other hand, we can’t afford to have the two most expensive drivers in one team.”

Meanwhile, Hamilton has committed to a new two-year contract with the Mercedes team. For now, Pérez remains Verstappen’s teammate. The 32-year-old Mexican has a contract until the end of 2024 at Red Bull Racing.