Red Bull is soon to announce the departure of senior advisor Helmut Marko, according to various sources. The 82-year-old Austrian is reportedly retiring after 21 years of loyal service. Over the past decades, Marko has been the primary talent scout within the Red Bull training program, notably known for bringing Max Verstappen to Formula 1 in 2015. His departure would represent another significant loss for the Austrian racing team.
Red Bull has not yet confirmed the news, but it is rumored that Marko’s departure has already been decided. On Sunday, following the season finale in Abu Dhabi, he hinted that his future within the team was uncertain, despite being under contract until the end of 2026. In recent years, he has been one of Max Verstappen’s most trusted confidants within the Red Bull ranks. During the controversy surrounding Christian Horner, Marko’s departure was already speculated, but Verstappen consistently emphasized his loyalty to the senior advisor and linked his own future to that of Marko.
New Momentum
Horner was dismissed by the team in July of this year. Key figures such as Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley had already left. The potential departure of Helmut Marko would be yet another significant loss for Red Bull. Team boss Laurent Mekies confirmed in Abu Dhabi that the management structures will be drastically revised for the new season. “Helmut has been incredibly supportive and has helped us tremendously this year to get everything back on track,” he stated. “Of course, he and the top management had to make some difficult decisions this year.” According to Mekies, it is logical that the organization is scrutinized in light of a new era. “You have to constantly adapt your structure, both technically and in terms of sports,” said the Frenchman.
Helmut Marko was active in Formula 1 between 1971 and 1972, but had to retire his racing suit after becoming blind in his left eye; a flying stone hit his visor during the French GP. He has been working at Red Bull for 21 years and discovered not only Max Verstappen but also four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. The man from Graz is known for his relentless approach. He quickly gives young talents a chance in the premier class, but can just as quickly end their careers if they buckle under pressure.
