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Helmut Marko revealed that his decision to leave Red Bull Racing had been a long time coming. Speaking exclusively to De Limburger in Graz, the Austrian veteran clarified that stepping away from the team after the final race in Abu Dhabi was entirely his own decision.
This contradicted reports from De Telegraaf, which had suggested that the Red Bull senior advisor had been asked to step down. Marko’s interview with De Limburger dismissed those claims, despite speculation that several recent driver-related decisions had contributed to his exit. The former senior advisor and talent scout for the Milton Keynes outfit announced his resignation following the 2025 Abu Dhabi GP, a move that took much of the paddock by surprise.
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The 2025 season marked a period of significant upheaval at Red Bull, with the departures of Adrian Newey, Christian Horner, and Helmut Marko. All three figures were instrumental for the team’s success between 2005 and 2025. Marko had previously hinted at stepping away from the role and had even attempted to persuade Sebastian Vettel to succeed him. Nevertheless, despite years of such remarks, his official announcement sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world.
Asked by De Limburger how the announcement of his departure surprised many, Marko said:
“Certainly. I haven't been around with it for that long myself. The idea of quitting began to live in Qatar with me. I'm not that doubter. I am quite resolute in my decisions. On Thursday for the last race in Abu Dhabi, I made the choice for myself that this would be my last weekend.”
Helmut Marko reveals how he told Max Verstappen he was leaving Red Bull
Helmut Marko has expressed regret over not being able to inform Max Verstappen of his decision to leave Red Bull Racing in person. The veteran advisor explained that the intensity of the championship fight and the season finale prevented a face-to-face conversation with his protege, forcing him to convey the news over a phone call instead. The 82-year-old recalled his conversation with the four-time world champion, during which the two reflected on the success they had shared over the years at Red Bull.
In the past, Verstappen’s contract reportedly included a clause requiring Marko’s continued presence at the team for the Dutchman to remain with Red Bull. De Telegraaf later reported that this clause was neutralised following the departure of Christian Horner. Verstappen remains under contract with the Milton Keynes outfit until the end of 2028, but will now continue his Red Bull journey without the Austrian veteran by his side.
Asked about how he informed Verstappen about his resignation from the team, Marko said:
“Do you know that I also had to inform Max of my decision over the phone ..But because we were still fighting for the championship, I decided to wait. I didn't want to bother Max with that. We would all have a joint dinner in Dubai on Monday, where Max would also be there. I wanted to tell him there myself, but due to logistical circumstances, Verstappen had to unsubscribe. Then I called him as soon as I got home.”
Recollecting the conversation about the journey they’ve shared so far at Red Bull, Marko said:
“It was melancholic. We told each other that we had never dreamed of our achievements. Max said we would see each other soon. Of all the drivers, I have built up the most intimate bond with him over the years. We don't have to say much to each other. A few words are enough to know each other's feelings. I can say it was an emotional call, yes.”
Max Verstappen will continue with Red Bull in 2026, but his long-term future remains a subject of speculation. It is understood that the four-time world champion could assess his options once there is clarity on which teams have mastered the new regulations. The Dutchman has been strongly linked to Mercedes, with Toto Wolff openly expressing his desire to sign him. Aston Martin has also emerged as a potential destination, which would see Verstappen reunited with Adrian Newey and Honda.
However, Verstappen is expected to wait and evaluate the competitive order after the first season under the new regulations before making any decisions about his future. Despite a late-season resurgence in 2025, Verstappen narrowly lost the drivers’ championship to Lando Norris by just two points. He ended the season with eight victories from 24 races, the highest win tally of any driver that year. Red Bull Racing finished in third place in the constructors ' championship.
