Helmut Marko to Decide Red Bull Future This Winter Amid Organizational Shift

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, 82, will hold winter talks to determine if he continues with the team beyond 2025, as growing indications suggest the legendary figure could step away from Formula 1. The Austrian has been instrumental in Red Bull's F1 journey since 2005, masterminding championship eras with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, but recent organizational changes signal a potential natural conclusion to his tenure.

Why it matters:

Marko's potential departure would close a defining chapter in Red Bull's history while accelerating the team's transformation under new leadership. His strategic vision shaped two championship dynasties, and his exit would represent both a symbolic transition and a practical shift as Red Bull prepares for its most ambitious technical challenge yet: becoming a full engine manufacturer in 2026.

The details:

• Sources confirm Marko will engage in formal discussions this winter about his role, with mutual agreement likely guiding any decision to step back after nearly two decades of influence.
• The timing aligns with Red Bull's broader organizational refresh following Christian Horner's mid-season departure, as Laurent Mekies restructures operations ahead of the 2026 technical regulations.
• When pressed at Yas Marina, Marko stated: "It's not in doubt, I will have a discussion and then I see what I do. It's a complex [set] of different things."
• Mekies acknowledged Marko's critical support during this year's transition: "Helmut has been incredible in helping us turn around things. F1 is not static – we constantly adjust organizations, whether technical or sporting."
• The team principal emphasized this evolution applies universally: "We always challenge each other and look for next steps... I can only thank Helmut for making fundamentally better what looked like a difficult situation mid-season."

What's next:

Marko's decision will unfold against the backdrop of Red Bull Racing's most significant technical evolution since entering F1. The team's dual commitment to fielding its own power units for both senior and junior squads in 2026 demands fresh leadership perspectives.

• While Marko's institutional knowledge remains invaluable, the engine program's complexity may favor younger technical leadership better aligned with next-generation development cycles.
• Any transition would likely maintain Marko's advisory status in a reduced capacity, preserving his legacy while enabling Mekies to fully implement his operational vision.
• The outcome will signal how Red Bull balances respect for its championship-building heritage with the aggressive innovation required to maintain dominance in F1's new era.