The relationship between Red Bull Racing team advisor Helmut Marko and Niki Lauda went back a long way. The two first met around 1968 and went on to be heavily involved in Formula 1 up until Lauda tragically dies earlier this year.
The long-term friendship was still present in recent years despite both being employed by competing teams. Lauda's loss shook the world of F1 and it really hit Marko.
“We often ate together, had fun, but also analyzed things. There was a good, fun atmosphere and there was respect,” Marko said to ServusTV.
“There are people who think they can replace Niki, but he is simply irreplaceable. He is a great personality. It is a shame that he is no longer among us."
Formula 1 will remember Lauda and Mercedes went on to honour his death by winning both the drivers and constructors championships in 2019.