Marko: After Didi Mateschitz a definite change at Red Bull

In an interview with ORF, Marko reflected on how Red Bull founder Mateschitz’s death, in October 2022, marked a turning point for the team, particularly in the speed and decisiveness of decision-making.

"With Mateschitz, decisions were made in the shortest possible time. He was a charismatic entrepreneur with vision and the willingness to take risks for the racing team," Marko stated.

However, after his passing, “there was a definite change at Red Bull everything had to be reorganized and replacing such an influential figure is no easy task" Marko suggested and added this may have contributed to Newey’s decision to seek new challenges at Aston Martin, where he will assume the role of Managing Technical Partner in March 2025.

Newey isn’t the only high-profile departure from Red Bull. Other key figures, such as Dan Fallows (Aston Martin), Rob Marshall (McLaren), and Jonathan Wheatley (Audi), have also left the team or will leave.

The Red Bull veteran consultant admitted to being "surprised" by the financial offers made to lure these employees away. He explained that Red Bull, constrained by the cost cap, couldn’t match the lucrative offers: "We are always struggling with the cost cap. These employees are often offered double or even more."

Marko also acknowledged that internal dynamics, including issues involving team principal Christian Horner, may have played a role in the personnel losses.

Though he did not delve into specifics, he said that "the Horner affair didn’t help" he said with reference to the 'sexting scandal' that engulfed the team before the season kicked off. Nevertheless, the team has worked to unify and focus on maintaining Red Bull's success, to continue their dominance in Formula 1.

Another potential concern is keeping Max Verstappen motivated with a winning car. Marko alluded to the performance-related exit clauses in the Dutch tiple F1 World Champion's contract, which runs until 2028. "If we do not provide Max with a car that allows him to win, then he will certainly look for opportunities elsewhere."

The situation surrounding the team’s 2025 driver lineup also remains uncertain. Although Sergio Perez’s contract was extended this year, Marko hinted that changes could still come, stating that the team would ideally have a driver from their junior program alongside Verstappen.

With Red Bull’s stable of drivers, including Yuki Tsunoda, Liam Lawson, Ayumu Iwasa, and Isack Hadjar, there are several potential replacements for Perez, whose future with the team may not be as secure as it seems.

Amid the uncertainties surrounding both drivers and key personnel, Marko expressed concerns about Verstappen’s future in Formula 1. Unlike veterans like Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, who are driven to extend their careers as long as physically possible.

Verstappen’s main motivation is winning in an enjoyable environment. If that enthusiasm fades, Marko warned: "Max might not hesitate to retire."

With internal team challenges, looming personnel changes, and the constant threat of Verstappen's exit, Red Bull Racing appears to be entering a period of uncertain transition that will define its future in Formula 1.