Marko steps down as Red Bull advisor after two decades

The 82-year-old requested to step down after more than 20 years shaping Red Bull’s rise into a multiple world championship powerhouse. Marko said the narrow failure to secure the 2025 title crystallised his decision.

Marko told German language media: "The fact that we narrowly missed out on the world championship this season affected me deeply and made me realise that the right moment has now come for me to personally bring this very long, intense and successful chapter to an end."

He reflected on a lifetime in global motorsport and his legacy at Red Bull: : "I have been working in motorsport for six decades, and the past more than twenty years at Red Bull have been an extraordinary and extremely successful journey. It was a wonderful time in which I was able to help and support so many talented people. Everything we have achieved and built together fills me with pride."

Marko said he believes Red Bull will contend again next season. He said: "I wish the entire team continued success and am convinced that it will once again be fighting for both world championship titles next year."

Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff emphasised that Marko initiated the step and that the organisation ultimately had to respect his wishes: "Helmut approached me with the wish to end his role as motorsport consultant at the end of the year. After a long and intense conversation, I knew I had to respect his wish, because I had the impression that the time was right for him to take this step."

Mintzlaff said Marko’s departure closes an era of enormous influence: "I deeply regret his decision, because he has been an extremely influential figure for more than two decades, and his departure marks the end of an exceptional era. Even though his departure leaves a gap, we respect his decision and are grateful for everything he has done for Red Bull."

He highlighted Marko’s strategic role in building Red Bull’s identity and competitiveness. Mintzlaff said: "Marko had earned unparalleled merit for Red Bull in motorsport over the past more than twenty years and, through all essential strategic decisions, shaped the Red Bull team into what it is today a multiple world champion, a driver of innovation and a cornerstone of international motorsport."

Mintzlaff praised Marko’s instinct for identifying future champions: "Names like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen represent many drivers who were discovered, supported and led to success under his guidance."

He described Marko as irreplaceable within Red Bull’s culture. Mintzlaff added: "His passion, his determination to make clear decisions, and his ability to inspire people will never be forgotten. Helmut Marko will be greatly missed both personally and professionally. We wish him all the best for the future and hope that he remains closely connected to the team."

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies echoed the sentiment, calling Marko a defining presence in the team’s racing DNA: "Helmut is a racer through and through. He always pushes us to the limit and is always ready to take risks so that we can achieve our goals. That he is leaving us is very sad news, because his departure will leave a void, and we will truly miss him."

Mekies said Marko’s exit closes a chapter of exceptional success.: "Marko’s departure marks the end of a remarkably successful chapter for Red Bull in motorsport. That is why I want to express my sincere gratitude for his unwavering support."

With Marko stepping back after two decades shaping Red Bull’s direction, the team now enters the 2026 cycle without the advisor who discovered and developed many of its greatest drivers. The focus shifts to how Red Bull adapts to the new era without one of the most influential figures in its history.