A farewell to the man who brought Max Verstappen into Formula 1 now seems very close. In a conversation with Oliver Mintzlaff, managing director at Red Bull GmbH, it was discussed this Monday in Abu Dhabi that it would be better if the 82-year-old Austrian took a step back.

Reportedly, after the earlier departure of former team boss Christian Horner, Mintzlaff wants to make a fresh start with Red Bull Racing. Moreover, Red Bull GmbH wants to have more control over the goings-on of the F1 teams.

Right after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Austrian said he was still considering continuing as an advisor to both Red Bull Formula 1 teams. Although Red Bull Racing’s advisor still has a contract through 2026, he says he first needs to comfortable, if he is to remain active in the sport.

It does seem, however, that the decision about staying with the team he helped build is not solely up to Marko. From headquarters, the decision about the Austrian’s future appears to have been made.

In the coming days, more clarity will likely emerge about developments at Red Bull, but it seems certain that the end of an era is near.

Red Bull team boss, Laurent Mekies, praised Helmut Marko for his role in helping Red Bull navigate a difficult mid-season and make key decisions. These comments come as the 82-year-old Austrian brought up the matter of his F1 retirement following Max Verstappen's lost Drivers' title in Abu Dhabi. Read the full story here.

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