Red Bull might struggle to keep Max Verstappen if they can't restore their dominant edge, adviser Dr Helmut Marko has conceded.

The blunt statement follows McLaren CEO Zak Brown's revelation that he rang Verstappen's management, whilst also tipping the four-time world champion for a 2026 Mercedes switch.

"Apparently he (Brown) called one of our drivers last week," team principal Christian Horner told Viaplay in Shanghai.

"If he is so happy with his own drivers, why would he call one of ours?"

Marko brushed off Brown's comments as typical Formula 1 "shenanigans", while Horner dubbed it "hot air".

Brown also noted whispers of Verstappen linking up with Adrian Newey at Aston Martin, following the design guru's recent Red Bull exit.

Marko confirmed Verstappen's sole focus is victory.

"Max wants a car that can always win," the 81-year-old told Sky Deutschland. "If we can't offer him that, there are always performance clauses, so it would be difficult.

"But it's only the second race of the season. The situation isn't as dire as Zak would like to see it."

Verstappen's frustration is evident, though. After outqualifying Oscar Piastri for the sprint, he slipped back late in the race due to tyre wear.

"I didn't expect anything else," the 27-year-old told Viaplay. "This is of course not what you want, but it is the reality." body check tags ::