Helmut Marko, the former Red Bull advisor, has long been known for his blunt style, sometimes crossing the line. Over the years, several missteps in the paddock have highlighted the consequences of his candid approach.
Marko, the 82-year-old former Austrian driver, never held back. However, his statements have occasionally sparked controversy, ranging from scientific misconceptions to harsh criticism of his own drivers and accusations against rivals. These missteps ultimately contributed to the end of his collaboration with Red Bull. After 20 years, Marko will no longer serve as an advisor for the Austrian team.
Verstappen and Covid-19: controversial theories
In 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic spread globally, Marko made headlines for his unorthodox approach. Speaking to the Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung, he said: “Verstappen is terrified of the virus. Instead, I think it would be better for Max to get infected now. At 22, he doesn’t face real risks. At least he would be immune for his title run.” These words drew criticism, given the thousands of deaths caused by the virus worldwide.
Red Bull vs. Mercedes: a rivalry fueled by Marko
The rivalry between Red Bull and Mercedes has always been intense, and Marko did little to calm it. At the 2022 Emilia Romagna GP in Imola, after Lewis Hamilton was lapped by Max Verstappen, Marko mocked the seven-time world champion on Sky Sport News: “He’s probably thinking he should have retired at the end of last season.” Fair play clearly was not a priority.
Criticism of Sergio Perez
The relationship between Marko and Red Bull driver Sergio Perez was often tense. One notable incident occurred during the 2022 Saudi Arabia GP weekend, when a missile strike on a nearby oil facility delayed the start of free practice. Marko commented to Sky Deutschland: “Verstappen is more relaxed, while Perez is a bit scared. Though living in Mexico City isn’t much safer…” His comments drew outrage from the American media.
After the 2023 Italian GP, Marko again targeted Perez, who finished second behind Max Verstappen in Monza after a strong race recovery. Marko criticized Perez on Servus TV: “At Monza, Perez had undoubtedly one of his best weekends, although he had some qualifying issues. He’s South American and cannot focus like Sebastian Vettel did or like Verstappen.” This sparked further controversy.
Targeting F1 rookies
Marko’s scrutiny extended even to F1 rookies. Isack Hadjar, making his debut at the 2025 Australian GP, crashed during the reconnaissance lap and could not start the race. Marko’s reaction on ORF was harsh: “It was whining, a rather embarrassing show.” Hadjar would redeem himself during the season and is set to partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026.
Antonelli accusation in Qatar 2025
Helmut Marko’s final public misstep came at the 2025 Qatar GP, when he accused Andrea Kimi Antonelli of intentionally letting Lando Norris, a rival to Max Verstappen, pass with two laps remaining. He said: “On two occasions, Kimi gestured to Lando to overtake him. Did he do it on purpose? Obviously. And the first time was the same.” In reality, Antonelli had simply made a driving error. Marko’s comments fueled a heated online debate, with the young Italian facing insults and threats. Marko later publicly apologized to Antonelli and Red Bull clarified the situation.
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