F1 News: Red Bull Director Reveals Reason Behind Lewis Hamilton Rejection

Red Bull Racing's Helmut Marko has definitively ruled out the prospect of Lewis Hamilton joining Max Verstappen at Red Bull

Red Bull Racing's director and advisor Helmut Marko has clarified the speculation surrounding Lewis Hamilton potentially joining the team, stating unequivocally that a partnership with Max Verstappen would not be feasible. This statement sheds light on the recent rumours of the Briton's team expressing interest in Red Bull, contrasting with claims from the Mercedes team.

Key Takeaways:

• Christian Horner's Revelation: Red Bull team principal Christian Horner indicated that Lewis Hamilton's representatives showed interest in him joining Red Bull, a claim that contradicts Mercedes' version of events.
• Helmut Marko's Firm Stance: Marko, a pivotal figure in Red Bull Racing, confirmed that the combination of Verstappen and Hamilton in the same team was never a possibility. He cites the intense rivalry and history between the two drivers, particularly highlighting the tumultuous 2021 season.
• Financial Constraints: Another major reason for the rejection is financial. Marko pointed out the impracticality of accommodating the two most expensive drivers in Formula 1 within one team.

Helmut Marko, the seasoned advisor for Red Bull Racing, recently brought clarity to the swirling rumours about Lewis Hamilton's potential move to Red Bull. In a statement reported by Motorsport.com, Marko conveyed a definitive rejection of the idea, citing multiple reasons why a Hamilton-Verstappen partnership would not work.

According to Marko, team principal Christian Horner was approached by Hamilton's camp with the proposal. However, Marko's response was decisive.

"Christian informed me and showed me the text message he received, but I told him: ‘Hamilton and Max, that doesn't work," he stated, referring to the intense competition and strained relations between the two drivers, notably in the 2021 season.

The financial aspect was another critical factor in Marko's decision. He acknowledged the high costs associated with having both Hamilton and Verstappen, two of the highest-paid drivers in the sport, in a single team. 

"We cannot afford to have the two most expensive drivers in one team. It's just never going to happen," Marko explained, highlighting the economic impracticality of such a move.

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In 2023, Lewis Hamilton renewed his contract with Mercedes, extending his commitment through the 2025 season. This renewal came in the middle of Hamilton's 11th season with the team, having joined Mercedes back in 2013. During his tenure, Hamilton has set numerous records, including championship wins, pole positions, and race wins. This extension demonstrates both Hamilton's ongoing dedication to the sport and Mercedes' confidence in his abilities as a leading driver.

Hamilton's decision to stay with Mercedes reflects his long-term vision and his commitment to achieving further success with the team. His partnership with teammate George Russell, also retained through 2025, indicates Mercedes' strategic approach towards maintaining a strong and competitive driver lineup.