Since the beginning of 2024, Red Bull has been going through a difficult phase. This is not only due to the underperformance of the car, but also due to numerous internal changes. From Newey to Wheatley, to the persistent rumors about Max Verstappen, the team is in a fragile moment. Now, in Saudi Arabia, Helmut Marko reveals who he would consider as his replacement.
The name mentioned by the Austrian consultant is already very well-known in Formula 1. It is Sebastian Vettel, the former German driver who won his four world titles with Red Bull. The inspiration probably also comes from the fact that the former #5 driver is in the Saudi Arabian GP paddock.
In particular, Sebastian Vettel is working with young go-kart athletes, so he has been identified by Marko as the perfect successor. After all, the Austrian, a cornerstone of the team, is getting older, raising more and more doubts about how long he will continue to hold his position.
Marko himself has also raised doubts about his future with Red Bull if Verstappen were to prematurely cancel his contract. However, when he leaves, the Austrian believes the team will be in good hands.
“Vettel is the perfect replacement” “I think he (Vettel) would be the ideal candidate as a successor,” said Marko to Sky DE. Despite Marko indicating Vettel as his preferred successor, the Austrian is not yet ready to leave the F1 paddock.
“No, not that. But it’s clear that at some point, I won’t be able to do it anymore, also because of age,” Marko added. “Because these travel efforts are no small thing. Of course, it would be fantastic if someone like Sebastian could take over. There’s also the junior program side.”
“He is already working with girls in go-karts here in Saudi Arabia. And on the other side, of course, there is the great strategic leadership of his Formula 1 team.”
Helmut Marko has been with Red Bull since its entry into F1 in 2005, taking care of the team’s young talents. With his extensive experience, the Austrian believes that the German champion would not have much trouble adapting: “I don’t think he needs a year,” said Helmut Marko. “Two races, and then he’ll have the situation under control. But this is a new approach, and I believe Sebastian has found his rhythm. He knows what he wants to do in the future, and it’s mostly about motorsport. He will also be the owner of a forest in Austria with his own hunting reserve, but he can combine all that.” – the Red Bull advisor concluded during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend.
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