Verstappen's "Marko exit clause" was added only recently and without Horner's knowledge, insiders claim [in german]

Translation of the relevant article parts:

Sometimes exit clauses can also contain more specific details. For example, a driver may be able to leave the team if there are changes at the top of the staff. Motorsport-Total.com is aware that such clauses exist for other drivers.

In Verstappen's case, it has emerged in recent weeks that the Dutchman does indeed have such a clause in his contract, which would allow him to leave if Marko is dropped.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this Marko exit clause, however, is that sources say it was not part of the original contract Verstappen and Red Bull signed in 2022.

Instead, the clause is said to be part of an addendum to the contract that was only recently added.

And what is even more interesting: Insiders have revealed that this addendum to the original contract was brought in unilaterally by the Verstappens and Marko, without the Red Bull Formula 1 team or Horner knowing anything about it at the time.

Marko was able to do this because he is one of two directors at Red Bull Racing and can therefore act on behalf of the team.

However, the existence of the clause only seems to have become known in recent weeks, when Verstappen's future became the subject of a public debate and the existence of the clause was openly mentioned.

Red Bull themselves have not commented on how or when this clause came into the contract, but its presence suggests that it was a means of protecting Marko's position and ensuring Verstappen's safety in terms of team management.