Helmut Marko Dismisses Red Bull Press Release as 'Utter Nonsense'

Helmut Marko has confirmed his departure as a Red Bull Racing advisor was a decision he made before the season finale in Abu Dhabi, forcefully dismissing an official team statement that suggested otherwise as "full of nonsense." The long-serving Austrian figure, a key architect in the team's success, made it clear the move was his own, denying persistent rumors he was being forced out.

Why it matters:

Marko's exit marks the end of an era for Red Bull, removing one of the most influential and controversial figures from its inner circle. His public rejection of the team's official narrative highlights significant internal tensions and a breakdown in communication at the highest level, raising questions about the team's stability and future direction without his guiding hand.

The details:

• Marko revealed to Dutch media that he had decided to step down prior to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, contradicting a press release from Red Bull GmbH (the parent company, not the race team) that implied his decision was linked to Max Verstappen failing to win the championship.
• He sharply criticized the release, stating, "I don't want to go into too much detail, but I didn't read that nonsense press release," and pointed to rapid changes within the team, adding, "You think you know people well, but then it turns out you don't."
• Marko reiterated that Verstappen's championship outcome was irrelevant to his choice, calling a fifth title with the driver his "ultimate dream" but confirming it would not have altered his plans to leave.
• He firmly denied any suggestion that Red Bull management wanted to oust him, stating the decision to depart was "entirely my own."

What's next:

Marko's departure creates a major power vacuum within Red Bull's leadership. The focus now shifts to how the team, and particularly Max Verstappen who had a close relationship with Marko, navigates this new chapter. The public airing of internal disagreements suggests underlying issues that may continue to surface as Red Bull adjusts to its post-Marko era and prepares for the 2026 regulations.