P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It was a left-field suggestion when it emerged, and now Helmut Marko has given it short shrift.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko firmly denied recent rumors about a potential new teammate for Max Verstappen. Verstappen confirmed he will stay with Red Bull for the 2026 season despite previous speculations about a Mercedes switch. The focus now shifts to who will fill the second seat alongside Verstappen for the upcoming season under new regulations. Isack Hadjar has impressed after initial setbacks, potentially becoming a top contender if Yuki Tsunoda fails to improve. Rising star Arvid Lindblad is also on the radar, despite trailing in the F2 championship fight. Marko dismissed Alex Palou as a contender for the team, emphasizing the goal to perform better for the rest of the current season.
