The age of Red Bull’s next driver will be taken into account, Helmut Marko has hinted.
Although there have been wobbles about Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull after the revelation that he could quit via a contractual clause if Marko also leaves, he has reaffirmed his loyalty.
Verstappen is contracted until 2028 but teammate Sergio Perez’s deal will expire at the end of this season.
Perez has started the season well amid huge pressure from rival drivers who covet his seat.
“Sergio is in a very good position at the moment,” Marko said to Sky Germany ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.
“The question of who should replace Perez doesn’t really arise.
“But it’s about the future. Perez is no longer the youngest, nor is Daniel Ricciardo.
“And if you then take other aspects into account, another driver could certainly be included in this process.”