Marko defeats Horner: How firmly does the top advisor sit in the saddle at Red Bull

By dismissing Christian Horner, Red Bull GmbH has clearly chosen Helmut Marko's side. For one and a half years, there was a well-publicized feud between the team boss and the external advisor, with the former even attempting to oust his colleague. It was, as known, Max Verstappen who put a stop to it, with the statement: 'If Helmut goes, I go.'

Eventually, Marko stayed, and now Horner is gone. As far as it is known, Marko had no direct role in the firing of the British team boss, although certainly the Thai and Austrian side (especially the latter) lent an ear to the 82-year-old. Anyone who has followed the events of the past eighteen months likely expects that Marko did not express positive judgment.

With Laurent Mekies, Red Bull GmbH has appointed a new team boss at the recommendation of Marko, which was made clear in a press release last week.

This means Marko has, in a way, scored another victory, as the Frenchman might feel indebted to Marko. At least Marko doesn't have to worry about Mekies sawing at his legs, at least not in the short term.

As a result, Marko is more firmly in the saddle than it appeared eighteen months ago. His 'enemy' Horner is gone, a confidant as successor and still pulling the strings himself. There is one 'but': Max Verstappen must not leave, because then Red Bull GmbH might choose to completely clean house, start from scratch, and with a completely new leadership.

If Verstappen stays until 2026 at least, then it's logical for Marko to serve out his contract until the end of that year. And who knows what the Austrian will do afterward; re-sign or enjoy his retirement. Marko no longer needs to worry about what Horner would want.