'We’ll hear one or two more statements from Marko in the future'

12:01, 04 Jan

Updated: 12:16, 04 Jan

byTobia Elia

Guenther Steiner is convinced that Helmut Marko will continue to make headlines despite his departure from Red Bull.

“We will still hear one or two statements from the doctor in the future – we don't have to worry about that”

- Guenther Steiner

Shortly after the end of the championship — narrowly lost by Max Verstappen by just two points to Lando Norris — the Austrian advisor brought his long and illustrious partnership with Red Bull to a close.

Speaking to GPblog later on, Helmut Marko confirmed that it was his decision to step aside, dispelling early speculation that he had been forced out.

In an interview with Krone, former Haas team principal admitted he was surprised by the timing of the departure, but stressed he has no doubt that we will continue to hear from Marko in the future.

Photo: Race Pictures

“I think it’s just a process that takes a bit of time. Unrest has been evident at Red Bull for a long time, probably even more than many thought. And as for Doctor Marko, I believe he stepped away mainly due to his age. I didn’t expect him to lash out like that again — but it does make for good entertainment, doesn’t it?

“I was surprised by the timing. I had expected him to wait until after next season before announcing his retirement. But he’s no longer the youngest, and the constant travel demanded by the F1 circus inevitably takes its toll over time. Still, I’m sure we’ll hear one or two more statements from the Doctor in the future — there’s no need to worry about that.”

'Helmut Marko leaving Red Bull was a big shock'

Reacting to the news of Marko’s departure, Jacques Villeneuve admitted he was taken aback by the development, while also acknowledging that it was only a matter of time before the old guard made way.

“Helmut Marko leaving Red Bull was a big shock, because we all were under the impression that it was a power play between Christian Horner and Marko. But now they’re both out. So that was not the power play!”

Read the full story here.

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