Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, has openly discussed his contemplation of leaving the team amidst the turmoil surrounding team principal Christian Horner’s conduct towards a female colleague.
The 80-year-old Austrian refuted rumors over the weekend that he might be suspended, following allegations that he leaked information from the internal investigation.
This controversy is part of ongoing drama within the Formula One team.
Marko’s comments came after a meeting with Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s head of sport, during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, highlighting the internal discussions about the situation.
READ: Max Verstappen jumps to Helmut Marko’s defence
Previously, Marko had hinted at a possible resignation, which raised concerns about the potential departure of world champion Max Verstappen in a gesture of loyalty to Marko.
However, in an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Marko revealed that his thoughts of leaving predated the scandal involving Horner, pointing to internal team conflicts.
“I hope it will all be over as soon as possible,” Marko expressed, indicating his desire for resolution.
He emphasized the importance of honoring the legacy of Red Bull’s founder, Dietrich Mateschitz, stating, “I was already thinking about leaving at the end of last year, but I also think we should think about Dietrich [Mateschitz’s] legacy, what his ideas were and where they took us.
“We owe that to him.”
Despite the turmoil, Marko and Verstappen planned to return to Europe from Saudi Arabia together, a change from an earlier plan to travel with Horner, which underlines the close relationship between Marko and the driver.
Following discussions with Mintzlaff, Marko believed the rumors about him would not lead to his suspension.
“We decided that these rumours [of the leaks] were spread and had no legal background.
“I will not be suspended,” he clarified, reaffirming the team’s focus on winning championships.
READ: Max Verstappen’s dad backs suspended employee amid Christian Horner scandal
Regarding Verstappen’s future with Red Bull, Marko acknowledged the length of the driver’s contract until 2028 and expressed gratitude for Verstappen’s loyalty during these challenging times.
“I was really thankful for how loyal Max was. I was impressed. We are not going to Mercedes together at the moment,” Marko stated, dispelling rumors of a team switch.
The ongoing situation puts additional pressure on Horner, especially with reports that the woman at the center of the controversy is considering an appeal against the decision that cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.