Christian Horner has clarified that there’s absolutely “no problem” with Helmut Marko, amidst speculations that he might be sidelined from the Milton Keynes-based team.
Despite rumours of potentially being removed from the team, Marko attended the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
The significance of keeping a good rapport with Marko was underscored when Max Verstappen declared he would exit the team if Marko were to be dismissed.
This statement follows after reports of Marko’s potential suspension by Red Bull GmbH, the owning entity of the team, were quashed after a discussion between Marko and CEO Oliver Mintzlaff.
However, Horner downplayed any reports of discord with Marko, stating: “My relationship with Helmut is no issue. I think that he’s always been outspoken. But that’s Helmut.”
In response to the speculations regarding a potential suspension, Horner expressed his astonishment at the notion that Marko’s role was at risk. He asserted that he has no sway over the decisions concerning Marko’s future.
Horner expressed: “I think the rumours about suspension was as [much] news to the team as it was to anybody else, so we were quite surprised to hear that.”
“Helmut is a contractor to Red Bull GmbH, so it was an issue between them and we weren’t part of that discussion.
“I’ve known Helmut since 1996 and he’s played an important role over the years, that role has evolved over the years. But I’ve known him a very, very long time,” said the 50-year-old.
He concluded: “And coming up 81 years of age, he’s still obviously motivated about Formula 1, which is a positive thing.”
