The 2026 Formula 1 season marks the first campaign without Helmut Marko present in the Red Bull garage. The former Austrian racing driver has been a key figure in the Red Bull F1 project since the team’s debut in the pinnacle of motorsport in 2005.
At the end of last year, Marko — who will turn 83 at the end of April — decided to step away from his long-standing role, confirming a gradual exit that he had already hinted at for some time. The former Red Bull advisor has watched the opening three races of the season from home and has yet to appear in the paddock, although he has still given a number of interesting interviews in recent weeks.
In recent days, however, news has emerged regarding a new role for Helmut Marko, one that still keeps him closely connected to Formula 1.
Marko becomes ambassador of the Red Bull Ring
On Thursday, April 9, Marko was officially appointed as the new ambassador of the Red Bull Ring, the circuit owned by Red Bull. During the “Primavera Stiria” event, Marko commented on his new position:
“I am excited about this new role. I have a long-standing connection with this track. Because of my age, I experienced the very first Formula 1 Grands Prix here in 1970, and there was incredible enthusiasm. With the arrival of Red Bull, the circuit entered a completely new dimension.”
Marko will serve as ambassador for both Formula 1 and MotoGP events held at the Austrian circuit.
Red Bull Ring CEO Thomas Uberall explained the reasoning behind the appointment of the Austrian motorsport figure:
“He is originally from Styria, and the circuit is located in Styria. We get along well, and he has a strong relationship with Red Bull. To ensure he does not completely step away after retirement, I proposed this role to him.”
Marko is expected to return to the paddock later this year, attending the Formula 1 race on June 28 and the MotoGP event on September 20.
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