Marko’s Red Bull departure sparks debate
The separation between Red Bull and Dr. Helmut Marko, the former consultant, has caused quite a stir among Formula 1 paddock regulars. Many theories have been floated, ranging from his removal due to unorthodox comments made in the days leading up to his criticism of Andrea Kimi Antonelli, to a possible power struggle within the team – a speculation recently discussed by Jacques Villeneuve.
There was also a less-discussed but very practical possibility. Helmut Marko will turn 83 on April 27, and according to Gunther Steiner, former Haas team principal, the Austrian might simply be too advanced in age to keep up with the relentless pace of Formula 1.
Gunther Steiner on Helmut Marko: a mix of speculation and humor
Speaking to ‘Sport Krone,’ Gunther Steiner said: “At Red Bull, restlessness has been evident for quite some time, but regarding Dr. Helmut Marko, I believe it was mainly an age-related matter.”
He did admit to being a bit surprised: “I certainly didn’t expect this timing. I thought he would wait until the end of the year to announce the end of his relationship with Red Bull.” The announcement came shortly after the last 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Even taking that into account, Gunther Steiner remains confident in his view and added a touch of ironic reassurance to journalists and fans eager to read his post-race comments: “He’s no longer young. Traveling at the pace demanded by Formula 1 inevitably takes its toll over time. But I believe this won’t stop him. He will surely be back to make some of his statements in the future, there’s no reason to worry,” reported ‘GPBlog.com’.
As the paddock processes the departure of one of its most outspoken figures, Guenther Steiner suggests that while age may have necessitated a step back from Red Bull, Helmut Marko’s presence in the media is far from over.
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