Photo: Race Pictures

Helmut Marko makes definitive call on potential Formula 1 return

13:01, 19 Jan

1 Comments

byTobia Elia

Helmut Marko has definitively ruled out a return to Formula 1 following his exit from Red Bull.

“It is 100% out of the question that I will return to F1“

- Helmut Marko

The Austrian advisor confirmed last month in an interview with GPblog that the decision to walk away from the Milton Keynes-based team was his own, rather than the other way around as had been widely speculated.

Speaking to ORF, Marko has now ruled out any further involvement in the paddock in the foreseeable future: “It is 100% out of the question that I will return to F1. There have been interesting inquiries and conversations, but I became successful in Formula 1 with Red Bull, and that’s how it will remain. There won’t be anything else.“

Marko concluded by revealing that, despite no longer being directly involved, he still follows what is happening within the Red Bull sphere — albeit in a far more relaxed way than when he was on the inside.

Photo: Race Pictures

“I’m not completely involved anymore, but I’m up to speed. The nice thing is that I don’t feel any pressure. I don’t have that direct responsibility anymore. Of course, I am interested in getting the best possible result for Red Bull, but the situation is much more relaxed now.“

Marko addresses Verstappen's exit clause amid Red Bull engine uncertainty

A report from German publication BILD suggested that the four-time world champion could be in a position to trigger an exit clause at the end of the 2026 season if he is not running inside the top two of the drivers’ championship by the start of the summer break in late July.

Given the uncertainties still hanging over the Red Bull Ford power unit, the scenario cannot be completely discounted — although any real assessment is likely to come only once running gets underway in pre-season testing, or even at the opening round in Melbourne.

When questioned on the matter, Marko dismissed the claim outright.

GPblog's latest F1 Paddock Update

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.