P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Marko: Tension and money prevent Hamilton/Verstappen F1 line-up
Speculation arose during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that Lewis Hamilton might join Red Bull Racing after his father had suggested a conversation with Christian Horner earlier this year. However, Horner’s attempt to contact Hamilton failed as he used an old mobile number. Hamilton has since committed to a two-year contract with Mercedes and is focused on helping the team return to the front of Formula 1. Red Bull chiefs have shown little interest in pairing Hamilton with Max Verstappen, and Helmut Marko ruled out the possibility due to the amount of tension and the high cost of having both drivers in one team. Hamilton never questioned his commitment to Mercedes during contract negotiations and believes the team can make the necessary changes to succeed, but he is unsure of what Red Bull will do.
