Helmut Marko to Leave Red Bull at End of 2025 After 20 Years

Red Bull’s long-serving motorsport adviser Helmut Marko will step down at the end of 2025, bringing an end to a 20-year spell with the team.

The 82-year-old has been a key figure at Red Bull since they joined Formula 1 in 2005. During his time with the team, they won six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ championships. Marko worked closely with the late Red Bull co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz and played a major role in developing many young drivers, including world champions Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.

In a statement, Marko said he was proud of everything achieved over his six decades in motorsport, and that his years at Red Bull had been “extraordinary and extremely successful”. He added that narrowly missing out on this year’s world championship made him realise it was the right moment to bring his long chapter to an end.

Red Bull said the decision came after a long and serious discussion. Oliver Mintzlaff, who oversees Red Bull’s Formula 1 programme, said he regretted Marko’s choice but respected it. He praised Marko for his huge influence on the team, saying his instincts for talent and his clear decision-making helped shape Red Bull into one of F1’s top teams.

Marko’s work with young drivers has left a big mark on the sport. Vettel and Verstappen are just two of many racers he helped guide to the top level. Mintzlaff said Marko’s passion and ability to spot potential would not be forgotten.

Max Verstappen has spoken with Marko about the decision and, although sad, accepts that it is time for him to move on. Verstappen previously helped protect Marko’s position during a power struggle with former team boss Christian Horner early in 2024.

According to reports, Marko has felt his influence fade after major changes within Red Bull following Horner’s exit in July. One recent disagreement came when Marko signed young Irish driver Alex Dunne to the Red Bull junior programme without the support of Mintzlaff and team principal Laurent Mekies. Dunne’s deal has since been cancelled, and he is now trying to find another route into Formula 1.

Marko’s departure will mark the end of an era for Red Bull, leaving the team to move forward without one of its most important and recognisable figures.