Sebastian Vettel Red Bull advisory role speculation has gathered pace after Max Verstappen openly backed the four-time world champion to join Red Bull in a leadership capacity if Dr. Helmut Marko steps aside.
Vettel’s name at the heart of Red Bull’s long-term vision reflects his status as one of the sport’s most popular former champions. Verstappen’s endorsement makes it clear the current Red Bull team would welcome him in a new leadership role. Speaking to media ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen highlighted Vettel’s long-standing connection to the team and his remarkable record.
“It’s more than normal that someone who has achieved so much with Red Bull, and who was brought up by Red Bull, would always have a spot available at the team,” Verstappen told the press. “Seb always kept a really good relationship with Helmut anyway, even when he left. I didn’t know they were talking, but I am sure there’s always a space for Seb in any kind of form.”
Vettel Opens Up About Conversations with Red Bull
Vettel, who won four consecutive world titles with Red Bull, confirmed he is already discussing the prospect with Marko. “We’re in contact about this, though maybe not so intensively or in-depth yet, but it’s possible,” Vettel told Austrian television.
He also spoke about Marko’s ongoing role and the importance of continuity, adding, “He’s already said a few times that he’d stop, but he’s still here, and I wish him all the best so that he stays around for a very long time. The goal is not just to have someone come in who simply replaces him. Whoever it is, it would be nice if the work he’s put in is carried on.”
Dr. Helmut Marko, who has shaped Red Bull’s F1 project since 2005, is yet to confirm his plans beyond the expiration of his contract in 2026. At that point, he will be 84.
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Marko told reporters, “The question of succession is one of those questions, too. Let’s put it this way: there are plenty of people who want to follow. The profile we need is very broad and very demanding – it’s set at the highest level.
“And the two shareholders, Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya, are there as well with their own ideas. We’re not talking specifically about the position, but Sebastian is keeping a very close eye on everything.”
