Helmut Marko, 81, hints at retiring from Red Bull and F1 after 2025, signaling a potential end to his influential motorsport career.
2025 could mark the final season for Dr. Helmut Marko as Red Bull’s influential motorsport advisor. At 81 years old, Marko has dropped several hints recently, even suggesting that four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel would be his ideal successor.
Just under a month ago, Marko mentioned that Max Verstappen’s potential departure from Red Bull at the end of the year “could be a good reason to step down.”
There have also been persistent rumors about a fractured relationship between Marko and Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal. Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff acknowledged in Jeddah that the two have had their “ups and downs.”
“Helmut hired Christian back in 2005,” Mintzlaff said. “They share a deep connection. But with all the pressure, emotions, and passion involved, it’s only natural that tensions might flare. However, we sit down and talk things through behind closed doors. That’s what we do.”
Joan Villadelprat, a well-known former F1 manager and engineer, believes Marko is genuinely preparing to retire. Speaking on the Duralavita podcast, Villadelprat referred to sources he described as “reliable,” suggesting that Marko would leave Red Bull—and F1—at the end of the season.
A few days ago, Marko gave another clue during an appearance on Red Bull’s Servus TV channel. He admitted he could imagine life after Formula 1: “My contract ends this year. It will be a change, but I have many other interests. I don’t think about F1 all the time. When I’m there, it’s my focus. But life offers so many other opportunities.”
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Helmut Marko’s Final Lap: Retirement Looms at Red Bull Helmut Marko’s Final Lap: Retirement Looms at Red Bull
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