Red Bull Racing has confirmed the departure of Helmut Marko, a key figure in the team since the Jaguar takeover in 2005. Architect of the junior program and behind-the-scenes strategist, the Austrian has shaped some of the greatest talents in modern F1. Under his supervision, Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen each won four world titles, while Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz and Pierre Gasly emerged from the same pool of young drivers.
Helmut Marko praises "an extraordinary career"
Following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the rumors announcing his departure were confirmed. In a statement, Marko delivered an emotional message:“I’ve been involved in motorsport for six decades now, and for the last 20 years at Red Bull It has been an extraordinary and extremely fruitful journey. "It was a wonderful time, shared with so many talented people. Everything we built together fills me with pride."
He acknowledges, however, that the end of the 2025 season, marked by a narrow miss of the title, was a triggering factor:
"This deeply touched me and made me realize that the time had come to bring this long, intense, and successful chapter to a close."
The departure of Marko inintervient takes place in a context of major transformation at RedBull. After the sidelining of Christian horner and its replacement by Laurent mekiesThe organization also saw the departure of Adrian Newey et Jonathan Wheatley, two other technical pillars.
Si Max Verstappen assured his immediate commitment, the rumors linking him to Classic Mercedes for sale ou Aston Martin remain insistent.
Laurent Mekies, the new team boss, praised the legacy left by Marko :
"It is very sad news that Helmut is leaving us. He was an essential member of our team and the entire program." Red Bull for over twenty years. His departure will leave a void.
He also emphasizes his personal role:
« Helmut with Oliver Mintzlaff, was the main reason for my return to the family Red BullHe's a true competitor, always ready to push us to the limit.
Si Red Bull Having lost one of its most influential architects, the team now moves towards 2026 with a new face — but also a major challenge: staying at the top without one of its founding strategists.
