formula 1
Red Bull Zoff: Verstappen confidant Marko wants to stay
Continuing at Red Bull: Helmut Marko. photo
© Hasan Bratic/dpa
The Formula 1 team Red Bull is in a tough test. Max Verstappen’s confidant Helmut Marko does not want to leave the field for the time being.
In the domestic dispute at the Formula 1 team Red Bull, the long-time advisor wants to Helmut Marko does not vacate his post. “I’ll carry on, yes,” said world champion Max Verstappen’s close confidante to the TV channel Sky before the Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia.
The Austrian had previously had a clarifying conversation with the German Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff after speculation that Marko would soon be replaced in the paddock.
“It was a very good conversation. We agreed on all points,” said Marko. The 80-year-old added that calm must return to the team. Red Bull top star Verstappen campaigned for Marko to stay in Jeddah. “Without him in the team, I think there will be a problem, even for myself,” the Dutchman said.
Support from Verstappen
“That was very impressive, I’m very grateful to him,” said Marko in support of Verstappen. “He is one of the few here who has strength of character and shows loyalty,” said Marko, praising the triple champion, whose career he had already promoted in the Red Bull junior team.
The background to the turmoil at the world champion racing team is the scandal surrounding team boss Christian Horner. An employee had accused the Brit of inappropriate behavior. After an internal investigation, the complaint was dismissed. However, anonymous emails with juicy details were then sent to journalists and Formula 1 officials, which put Horner under pressure again.
At Red Bull, Marko is seen as Horner’s opponent, who is supported by the Thai majority owners. Marko said there would be another conversation between Mintzlaff and the Thai owners in Dubai on Sunday.
Rumors “complete nonsense”
Marko rejected rumors that he had sent the incriminating emails to Horner. “That’s complete nonsense. I’ll be happy if I can use my cell phone halfway,” he said. He has not seen the investigation report or the data material.
Marko’s contract with Red Bull runs until the end of 2026. If he has to leave the team early, Verstappen could also get out of his contract, which runs until the end of 2028, earlier thanks to a contract clause.