Helmut Marko Reportedly Set to Leave Red Bull After Two Decades of Influence
Red Bull Racing is facing yet another major shake-up, as senior adviser Helmut Marko is reportedly preparing to leave the Formula 1 team at the end of the year. According to reports, including one from The Telegraph, the 82-year-old Austrian is expected to step away from his long-held role before the start of the next season. If confirmed, this would mark the end of an era for the team and signal a continued shift in Red Bull’s leadership structure.
A Tumultuous Period for Red Bull
Marko’s rumored departure comes shortly after the exit of team principal Christian Horner — one of the most influential figures in Red Bull’s history. Together, Horner and Marko shaped the identity of the team for nearly 20 years. To see both men leave within a short period suggests the organisation is undergoing deep internal changes, possibly aimed at restructuring the team ahead of upcoming regulation shifts.
Throughout 2025, the energy drink giants have dealt with several internal controversies, strategic disagreements, and management realignments. Marko himself hinted that his long-term future was uncertain during the season finale in Abu Dhabi. When questioned about whether his position was in danger, he responded cautiously, saying:
> “It’s not in doubt, I will have a discussion and then I see what I do. It’s a complex set of different things. I have to sleep over it and then we will see.”
His comments sparked immediate speculation, especially since they contrasted sharply with his typically confident public tone. Marko has always been straightforward about his decisions, so this hesitancy was widely interpreted as a sign that things were no longer as stable behind the scenes.
The Marko–Verstappen Relationship: A Key Factor
One of the most intriguing aspects of Marko’s possible exit is how it may impact the future of Max Verstappen. The three-time world champion has consistently expressed deep admiration and affection for Marko, even describing him as a “second father.” Marko was instrumental in bringing Verstappen into the Red Bull family as a teenager and fast-tracking him into Formula 1.
Many fans and experts believe that Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull has been tied not only to the team’s competitiveness but also to his personal relationship with Marko. Therefore, Marko stepping away could place new and intense scrutiny on Verstappen’s longer-term plans in the sport. Without Marko’s guidance and influence, Verstappen may reassess his future — especially if Red Bull goes through further instability.
Marko’s Legacy at Red Bull
During his time with the team, Marko oversaw the Red Bull Junior Programme, one of the most successful talent-development systems in motorsport. Through this program, the team discovered and groomed multiple star drivers, including Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, Carlos Sainz, and of course, Max Verstappen.
Marko was known for his tough, uncompromising approach — a style that not everyone appreciated, but one that undeniably produced results. His decisions, including driver promotions and mid-season swaps, were often controversial, but they kept Red Bull competitive, innovative, and dynamic.
Team principal Laurent Mekies also praised Marko’s contributions, highlighting how critical he has been to the team, especially during periods of difficulty. Mekies said:
> “Helmut has been incredible in how supportive he has been in helping us turn around things this year. Him and top management had quite a few difficult decisions to make… F1 is never static. We constantly challenge each other and review the organisation to improve.”
His words underline how deeply Marko’s presence shaped the culture of the team — always pushing, adjusting, and seeking the next edge.
A New Era for Red Bull
If Marko does leave, Red Bull will be entering a dramatically different era. The exits of both Horner and Marko would represent the departure of the foundational leadership that guided Red Bull through its championship years with Sebastian Vettel and later with Max Verstappen.
With new figures taking over key positions and a shifting organisational structure, the team’s internal dynamics are likely to evolve. Red Bull may adopt a more corporate approach rather than the aggressive, personality-driven style that defined its earlier years.
As the team prepares for new regulations, new technologies, and new competition in 2026, losing an experienced figure like Marko will inevitably reshape decision-making and perhaps even the team’s long-term identity.
Helmut Marko’s reported decision to leave Red Bull marks a significant turning point for the team. His influence over driver development, team culture, and competitive strategy has been central to Red Bull’s success for two decades. Whether his exit strengthens or destabilises the team remains to be seen. One thing is undeniable — Red Bull is entering a period of transformation, and Marko’s departure could be the moment that fully closes the chapter on one of the most dominant eras in modern Formula 1.
