Dr Helmut Marko, Red Bull's team advisor, has identified Sebastian Vettel as an "ideal successor" for his influential role within the team.
Although retired from racing, the quadruple world champion has maintained some ties with Formula 1 and is present in Saudi Arabia this weekend.
Amid speculation that Max Verstappen might depart Red Bull, Marko, 81, recently suggested that such a scenario could prompt his own exit from the sport. "It's quite clear that at some point it won't work anymore—also due to my age," the Austrian told Sky Deutschland in Jeddah.
"It would of course be great if a man like Sebastian would take over."
Marko envisioned Vettel, 37, overseeing Red Bull's renowned junior driver programme while also guiding the team's broader strategic direction. "The other function, of course, is the overall strategic direction of such a Formula 1 team," he explained. "I think he knows enough about that too."
Marko has previously hinted at Vettel's interest in returning to the paddock since his retirement at the end of 2022. On Saturday, he said, "I think Sebastian has found himself now. He knows what he wants to do in the future. Motorsport is the first priority. He is also a forest owner in Austria now with a private hunting ground, but he can combine all that," Marko smiled.
He expressed confidence in Vettel's ability to adapt swiftly to the supervisory role. "He doesn't need a year—just two races and he'll have it under control," Marko said.
When confronted with Marko's remarks, Vettel laughed, saying, "I think there is only one Helmut. His role is really his alone."
However, the former Red Bull and Ferrari driver did not entirely dismiss the possibility. "Today, Formula 1 is about the same things as it was years ago. Whether it is something for the future, we'll see," he said.
Vettel revealed he had previously discussed Marko's eventual retirement with him. "I asked him about it a few years ago too," he said. "Then, he said he wouldn't do this for much longer. But I think he's still here! As long as he's still enjoying it and can handle it, this is a unique role for him. Sometimes we might wonder 'How did this or that have to happen?' But he just has a completely different approach and different experiences. It would be a shame if he ever drops out or loses his position, but then of course it would have to develop in a new, different direction."
