Marko hoping F1 can be a "good distraction" amidst growing world tensions

Currently, there are major conflicts in different parts of the world. Although there is no direct threat to Western countries yet, there have been increasing tensions around the world.

The war between Russia and Ukraine is still ongoing, with that conflict resulting in the Russian Grand Prix being axed from the F1 calendar.

In addition, the conflict between Israel and Gaza continues, with conflict between Israel, Iran, and the United States also occurring, which resulted in a US airbase in Qatar being targeted by military strikes, just a few kilometres away from the Losail International Circuit that holds the Qatar Grand Prix.

Although Austria is still in a safe area, Marko is aware of the dangers that are occurring around the world as the Austrian Grand Prix takes place as the 11th race weekend of the 2025 season.

"Fortunately, Austria is not directly affected by all the wartime events," the 81-year-old commented on the current unrest in the world while speaking with Krone Zeitung. 

The Austrian continued: "But whether it's football or Formula 1, it goes on. Maybe it's a good distraction for people to push the possible huge threat into the background."

"No one could have imagined that a war would break out so close," he added. "The images are downright horrific. Who's going to finance the reconstruction? And now first, the weapons? Tougher times are coming."