Dr Helmut Marko's long and influential tenure as Red Bull's advisor may be nearing its end, with 2025 potentially marking his final season in Formula 1, according to a well-placed insider.
The 81-year-old Austrian has dropped several hints about his future recently, including naming quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel as his "ideal successor" during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend.
Less than a month ago, Marko suggested that Max Verstappen's possible exit from Red Bull at the end of 2025 "could be a good reason" for him to step away.
Persistent rumours also point to a fractured relationship with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, adding to speculation about his departure.
Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff acknowledged tensions between Marko and Horner in Jeddah, stating to Bild newspaper, "Helmut was the one who hired Christian in 2005. They have a huge connection."
He added, "It's clear that with all the pressure, emotions, and passion, feelings can sometimes run high. But then you have to sit down and discuss it behind closed doors. And that's what we're doing."
However, former F1 manager and engineer Joan Villadelprat, citing insider sources, has made a bold prediction on the Duralavita podcast, asserting that Marko will retire from Red Bull—and Formula 1—at the conclusion of the 2025 season.
This claim aligns with Marko's own reflections on life beyond the sport. Speaking on Servus TV a few weeks ago, he admitted, "I can imagine" a future outside Formula 1.
"It will be a change," he said, "but I have a wide range of interests. I don't think about Formula 1 all the time. When I'm there, that's the focus. But life offers you so much else."
