Helmut Marko left his position as an advisor for Red Bull Racing on December 9, 2025. His departure was formalized following a meeting in Abu Dhabi, after the final race of the season. Marko had held the role of motorsport advisor and overseer of the driver program since 2005.
Marko’s exit occurs during a period of internal restructuring at Red Bull, following the previous departure of Christian Horner. The team begins the 2026 era as an engine manufacturer with a renewed structure. Marko himself expressed confidence that the team will continue to fight for world championships.
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According to statements cited by specialized press, Oliver Mintzlaff, the team’s CEO, stated: «He contacted me explaining his wish to terminate his contract as an advisor.» Similarly, Laurent Mekies, the team principal, referred to the departure as very sad news, recognizing Marko as an integral part of the program for over 20 years.
Marko is 82 years old and has a six-decade-long career in motorsport. His role at Red Bull was key in strategic decisions and in managing the junior team. His professional relationship with Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz was fundamental to his influence in the project.
Sports career and transition
As a driver, Helmut Marko competed in Formula 1 during the 1970s. He also achieved victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the most outstanding accomplishments of his racing career.
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After retiring from competition, he began a new chapter as a sporting director and driver manager. His track experience formed the basis for his subsequent focus on identifying and developing young talent for Formula 1.
The relationship between Marko and Pérez
During Sergio Pérez’s four years at Red Bull, Helmut Marko maintained a stance of constant criticism towards the driver. His public statements regularly questioned his performance and his aggressiveness on track.
The relationship reached a significant point of tension when Marko attributed Pérez’s performance fluctuations to his origin. These statements were labeled as ethnically and geographically incorrect, forcing the advisor to issue a public apology.
Marko’s criticism of the Mexican driver didn’t cease after his departure from the team. The advisor continued to comment on Pérez’s performance at his new team, keeping his disapproval of the driver visible even from a distance.
Legacy and Figure as an Advisor
At Red Bull, Marko oversaw the young driver program that promoted 20 drivers to Formula 1. His method was characterized by direct evaluation and quick decisions about the drivers’ futures.
Among the drivers he advised and promoted are:
- Sebastian Vettel, world champion with Red Bull.
- Max Verstappen, whom he signed for the team at age 16.
- Daniel Ricciardo.
- Mark Webber, with whom he maintained a public professional relationship.
His style generated friction, such as with his comments about Kimi Antonelli after the Qatar Grand Prix. Events like this, added to the unilateral signing of driver Alexander Dunne, increased tension with the management.
Helmut Marko’s departure closes a chapter in the structure of Red Bull Racing, a team that must face the future without one of its defining figures. His direct and often controversial approach is inscribed in the 14 world championships the team conquered under his advisory. The imprint of his program for young prospects will endure at the highest level of motorsport.
