Marko: 'I can stop whenever I want'

Dr Helmut Marko has experienced many things in the past six months. These included the death of his good friend Dietrich Mateschitz, Red Bull Racing winning both world titles and Red Bull striking an engine deal with Ford for 2026. In an interview with German Speedweek.com the Austrian looks back on the past six months.

It has been a volatile six months for the 79-year-old Red Bull adviser. In September 2022, Max Verstappen won his second world title as a driver in Japan. Marko's close friend Mateschitz, who turned Red Bull into a global brand, died at the end of October. Shortly after his death, Red Bull won its first constructors' championship in nine years.

Marko argues that things did change for his work at the team since the death. "It is no longer the case that I report by phone after every practice and race. The direct, personal and friendly relationship is no longer there.`Didi' was a visionary, had emotions. I don't see that anymore."

Marko on deal with Ford

According to the consultant, talks with Ford began only after the failed talks with German Porsche. He also says it is not that Red Bull approached Ford, but that they approached each other. "Both parties approached each other. The negotiations were conducted personally by president Bill Ford and CEO Jim Farley with our team boss Christian Horner, whom I supported," Marko said.

Marko on future

Dr Helmut Marko does not yet know how long he will continue working at the Austrian racing stable. "I am a free person. I can quit at any time if I am no longer satisfied. It remains to be seen what the future will look like," said the Austrian.