Helmut Marko Issues Red Bull Warning Over Verstappen 2026

Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Helmut Marko has ruled out an immediate return to the Formula 1 paddock following his departure from Red Bull Racing at the end of the 2025 season, but confirmed he continues to monitor developments daily.

Marko concluded his long-standing tenure with the Milton Keynes-based outfit after playing a foundational role in shaping its motorsport structure. He was instrumental in establishing the Red Bull junior programme, which produced multiple world champions including Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. His close relationship with Verstappen was widely regarded as a key pillar of stability within the organisation.

Despite no longer being trackside, Marko remains closely engaged with the evolving competitive landscape, particularly the sweeping 2026 power unit regulations introducing a 50:50 split between combustion and electrical energy. He suggested Mercedes could hold an early advantage under the new rules, while stressing that fuel performance will also play a decisive role.

“Mercedes may have a small advantage, but can they turn that into success properly?” Marko told Blick.

He emphasised that Red Bull’s transition into becoming its own power unit supplier presents an additional layer of complexity. Maintaining competitiveness, he indicated, will be crucial if the team intends to keep Verstappen satisfied amid a shifting regulatory environment.

“Red Bull has worked well with its own engine so far – and they have to continue to do that if you want to keep Verstappen happy,” he added.

The current pre-season testing period marks the first in more than two decades that Marko has not been directly involved in Formula 1 operations. For now, he has no intention of returning to the paddock, though he remains closely connected to the sport’s unfolding developments.

“I don’t feel an urge to go back to the races yet, but I will keep myself updated daily,” Marko said. “And I will be in front of the TV at 5 a.m. in Australia.”