Here’s what I can share based on recent reporting.
Answer
- Mark Webber has said Formula 1 cannot afford to lose Max Verstappen, arguing the Dutch four-time champion is essential for the sport’s global appeal and competitive tension. He has emphasized Verstappen’s role in lifting the field and maintaining audience interest, particularly as F1 navigates regulatory and performance changes.[1][6]
Context and notable angles
- Webber’s stance centers on Verstappen’s value beyond wins, including fan engagement, sponsorship, and on-track drama that drives viewing figures worldwide.[1]
- In recent remarks, Webber has suggested that if Verstappen were to depart, it would be a major blow to F1’s popularity and marketability, given the level of scrutiny and competition he generates.[6]
Illustrative takeaway
- A common thread in Webber’s comments is that Verstappen acts as a benchmark that keeps rivals—teams and drivers—pemanding performance improvements, much as iconic rivalries have historically done in other sports.[1]
If you’d like, I can pull a concise set of direct quotes or summarize the latest week’s coverage from specific outlets. I can also track any new statements from Verstappen, Webber, or team principals as they emerge.
Sources
mark webber is at the center of Formula 1’s latest exit debate after Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the sport would keep going if Max Verstappen walked away. The FIA president addressed the rumours during the Miami Grand Prix weekend and framed Verstappen’s frustrations as part of a wider cycle for winni…
www.el-balad.comWebber compares Max Verstappen to Nadal and Federer, warning F1 must keep its four-time champion racing to maintain its global appeal.
readmotorsport.comMark Webber says Max Verstappen can be stopped, but chances are only his own RB19's reliability can do that.
www.planetf1.comMark Webber appeared furious after qualifying for the British Grand Prix. The team brought only two examples of the new front wing to Silverstone, and Sebastian Vettel's wing failed during Saturday practice. The team therefore chose to remove the new wing from W's car
f1grandprix.motorionline.comMark Webber has been forced to apologise for disparaging remarks about his Red Bull team following his win in the British Grand Prix on Sunday.
www.abc.net.auFormer Red Bull driver Mark Webber has described Max Verstappen as being "a bit flaky" this season, saying he'd like to see him "on the road" a bit more.
www.espn.com.auRed Bull's Mark Webber says he is not part of the "agenda" of the company's motorsport chief, Helmut Marko.
www.bbc.comFormer Formula 1 driver Mark Webber believes Max Verstappen is too important to the sport to walk away. According to the Australian, the Dutchman’s presence not only attracts fans around the world, but also keeps his rivals under constant pressure.
www.news.gp