Helmut Marko set to leave Red Bull at the end of the season
Helmut Marko is set to depart Red Bull when the current season concludes, according to reports emerging from the Formula One paddock, reports BritPanorama.
The 82-year-old Austrian has served as the Milton Keynes outfit’s motorsport adviser for many years, becoming one of the most influential figures in the sport. His exit, planned before the 2026 campaign begins, is notable despite his contract extending through next season and represents a substantial loss for the team, given his pivotal role in shaping Red Bull’s driver development programme and strategic direction.
Red Bull’s chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff is reportedly viewing next year as an opportunity for a fresh start for the organisation. Speaking at the Yas Marina Circuit following the season finale, Marko indicated he would be contemplating his future over the coming weeks. “It’s not in doubt, I will have a discussion and then I see what I do,” he stated. “It’s a complex [set] of different things. I have to sleep over it and then we will see.”
Marko maintained that any decision regarding his position would ultimately be his own to make. However, reports suggest that the matter has already been settled internally, with Marko’s departure considered a foregone conclusion. His relationship with Max Verstappen has been particularly noteworthy, as the Dutchman previously stated he would follow Marko out of the door should he leave.
Verstappen described the veteran adviser as an “important pillar” of the organisation, adding that his exit would “not be good” for his own future. “So, for me, Helmut has to stay, for sure,” he concluded at the time. Nevertheless, sources within the paddock indicate that Marko’s departure will not significantly influence Verstappen’s plans, with the future competitiveness of Red Bull’s machinery being the key factor influencing whether he remains beyond his current contract.
Red Bull is experiencing considerable upheaval following the dismissal of Christian Horner as team principal and chief executive after the British Grand Prix in July. Laurent Mekies has since taken command, overseeing a challenging transition period. The Frenchman acknowledged that several “difficult decisions” await the team this winter, stating, “Helmut has been incredible in how supportive he has been in helping us turn around things this year.” As Formula One continues to demand constant organisational adjustments, the Milton Keynes squad is expected to debut their own power units next season, marking a significant shift in their operations.
In a sport where strategy and personnel decisions often define success, Marko’s departure underscores the delicate balance of power within F1 teams and the ever-evolving landscape of motorsport management.
