Could Marko’s successor at Red Bull be Vettel?

Vettel, now 37, achieved major success in Formula 1 with 53 career wins and four world titles for Red Bull Racing during their dominant run from 2010 to 2013. Now, he has hinted at a surprise return to the sport in a management capacity, following early talks with 82-year-old Marko. For all the F1 news ESPN+ Free Trial has it all.

The German retired at the end of the 2022 season after a frustrating final year with Aston Martin. He has ruled out returning as a driver but has expressed interest in staying close to Formula 1.

Speaking on ORF TV’s Sport am Sonntag podcast, Vettel acknowledged: “There have been a few headlines recently. I still get along great with Helmut, and we’re in contact regarding that topic. [Talks are] not yet that intensive or in-depth. It’s perhaps something that could play a role. In what form remains to be seen.”

Vettel also made clear that Marko cannot simply be replaced, and dismissed any immediate handover. He said: “He’s irreplaceable. Let’s just leave it at that... His character alone. He’s made a very, very significant contribution to what the entire team has achieved since 2005. And perhaps it wouldn't even be the goal to have someone replace him."

The former Red Bull driver continued: “He’s said a few times that he’s going to quit, but he’s still here. I hope he stays with us for a long time. But at some point, things will inevitably move on, and he knows that. He’s a brutal realist and can assess things quite well. He’ll sense when the time is right.

“I haven’t been that close in recent years, but I do think I know what he’s doing. And no matter what happens, there’s still a lot to learn from him," insisted

Marko’s future at Red Bull is in his own hands. His role is considered secure, and while age may eventually prompt his departure, he currently remains fit and active.

Many fans would welcome Vettel’s return to Formula 1, particularly with Red Bull, where he maintains strong ties since leaving in 2014.

Red Bull also have reason to keep Marko, with ongoing rumours that Max Verstappen’s contract includes an exit clause linked to his mentor’s presence. However, Vettel’s arrival may also strengthen Verstappen’s position within the team that is undergoing a transformational phase.

From his side The Dutch ace appeared warm to the idea when asked about Vettel as a Marko replacment by reporters in Spielberg today: I"It’s more than normal that someone that has achieved so much with Red Bull, has been brought up by Red Bull, that, in a sense, there’s always a spot available, right? I think also,

"Seb always kept a really good relationship with Helmut anyway, even when he left. So, I didn’t know that they were talking, but I’m sure that there’s always a space for Seb in any kind of form," declared Vettel.