Helmut Marko admits that the death of Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022 has left the Formula 1 outfit being “rearranged” and power divided.
Oliver Mintzlaff assumed Mateschitz’s duties as Managing Director at Red Bull, which of course includes its prized F1 asset.
However, CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner is largely in control of all Red Bull F1 matters.
Still, the effects Mateschitz’s passing in 2022 are still being felt today, as Marko explained how the Red Bull organisation is adapting to his late friend’s absence.
“The death of Dietrich Mateschitz has of course brought changes,” Marko told ORF. “He was an autocrat, decisions were made quickly. He was a charismatic entrepreneur with a certain vision and someone who was willing to take risks.
“Now everything within the organisation is being rearranged, where it is not possible to find such a personality as Mateschitz. As a result, he also cannot be replaced by just one person.
“In terms of structure, Oliver Mintzlaff is responsible for Formula 1, amongst other things. He also does soccer, cycling and various other things. Operationally, Christian Horner is responsible.
“I would say that the final details have not been finalised yet either, because the system is growing.”
How Red Bull F1 is managing feuds in 2024
The evolving power dynamic at Red Bull was particularly poignant at the start of the year when Horner was accused of improper conduct.
Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing by an independent King’s Counsel, but speculation suggested the accusations were a ploy to remove Horner from the team.
One clear product of the saga was a war of words engaged by Jos Verstappen, who claimed Horner’s position could threaten the entire team.
Marko explained how Red Bull had to diffuse the situation, with Verstappen’s comments proving counterproductive.
“Let’s put it this way, it didn’t help,” Marko said.
“But internally we sat down together and said, ‘We have to join forces and work together in all areas so we can win this world championship’.
“And also for the future, so that we have a winning car again.”
Helmut Marko insists Red Bull must be competitive to retain Max Verstappen
Keeping things harmonious at Red Bull is vital to keep the team pulling in the same direction.
Only then can it continue to fight at the top of F1’s pecking order, a vital facet of retaining star driver Max Verstappen.
Marko has acknowledged the importance of this, amid a winless run of eight rounds for the Dutchman.
“it’s also clear that if we don’t give Max Verstappen a car he can win with, then in the long run all those contracts of top drivers have performance-related exit clauses and Max will then start looking at others, provided he’s still having fun,” Marko said.
“That’s another factor that comes into play. He will drive where the best package is always on offer.”
Red Bull has currently relinquished its hold of the Constructors’ Championship, trailing McLaren by 516 to 475 points.
Verstappen meanwhile, has a 52 point lead of McLaren’s Lando Norris in the Drivers’ standings with six rounds remaining in 2024.
Failure to retain the title, amid power struggles and key staff departures (see Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley) could sow the seeds for a Verstappen exit.
READ MORE: Helmut Marko admits ‘the danger is there’ that Max Verstappen could leave Red Bull
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