Former Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has played down any chance of a future return to the Formula 1 paddock.
Marko spent more than 20 years as a central figure at Red Bull, and was instrumental in shaping the team’s driver programme, and helped guide talents such as Sebastian Vettel, Max Verstappen, and Daniel Ricciardo to the top level.
He confirmed late last year that his time with the Milton Keynes-based squad would come to an end after the 2025 season.
Since stepping back, Marko says life has become noticeably calmer.
“I’m not completely involved anymore, but I’m up to speed,” he told ORF.
“The nice thing is that I don’t feel any pressure, so I don’t lie awake with thoughts like, ‘What if the engine doesn’t work, or something else doesn’t?’ and so on.”
“I don’t have that direct responsibility anymore. Of course I am interested in getting the best possible result for Red Bull, but the situation is much more relaxed now.“
Despite ongoing speculation, Marko insists his Formula 1 chapter is closed. Even though approaches have been made, he has no intention of taking on a new role elsewhere.
“Yes, it is 100 per cent out of the question that I will return to Formula 1,” he said.
“I have had very obscure and interesting requests and conversations at times.
“But I have become successful in F1 with Red Bull and that should continue. Nothing else will take its place.”
READ MORE – Helmut Marko dismisses Max Verstappen title chances in 2026
Discussion about this post