The 80-year-old Austrian denied rumors over the weekend that he could face suspension, following accusations of leaking information from the internal investigation. Dr. Helmut Marko, motorsport advisor for Red Bull, openly discussed his consideration of leaving the team amidst the chaos surrounding the behavior of team principal Christian Horner towards a female colleague. The octogenarian Austrian refuted rumors over the weekend that he could be suspended, following allegations of leaking information from the internal investigation. This controversy is part of the ongoing drama within the Formula 1 team. Marko’s comments came after a meeting with Oliver Mintzlaff, head of sports for Red Bull, during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, highlighting internal discussions about the situation.
Previously, Marko had hinted at a possible resignation, raising concerns about the potential departure of world champion Max Verstappen as a show of loyalty to Marko. However, in an interview with the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Marko revealed that his thoughts of leaving predate the scandal involving Horner, pointing to internal conflicts within the team. “I hope everything will be over as soon as possible,” Marko expressed, indicating his desire for a resolution. He emphasized the importance of honoring the legacy of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, stating: “I was already considering leaving at the end of last year, but we must also consider Dietrich’s legacy, his ideas, and where they have taken us. We owe it to him.”
Despite the turbulence, Marko and Verstappen planned to return to Europe from Saudi Arabia together, a change from the previous plan to travel with Horner, highlighting the strong bond between Marko and the driver. After discussions with Mintzlaff, Marko believed that the rumors surrounding him would not result in his suspension. “We concluded that these rumors [about the leaks] were spread without any legal basis. I will not face suspension,” he clarified, reaffirming the team’s focus on winning championships. Christian Horner’s Red Bull team still faces the possibility of dismissal as the FIA intervenes.
Read: Max Verstappen’s father supports suspended employee amid Christian Horner scandal. Regarding Verstappen’s future with Red Bull, Marko acknowledged the driver’s contract until 2028 and expressed gratitude for Verstappen’s loyalty during these challenging times. “I was genuinely grateful for Max’s loyalty. I was impressed. At the moment, we will not go to Mercedes together,” Marko said, dispelling rumors of a team swap. The ongoing situation adds additional pressure on Horner, especially with reports suggesting that the woman at the center of the controversy is considering appealing against the decision that cleared Horner of any wrongdoing.
