Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has expressed openness to Sebastian Vettel returning to Red Bull in an advisory capacity. Vettel is currently in early discussions about potentially succeeding long-serving Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko when Marko’s contract ends in 2026. This possible future role aligns with Vettel’s ongoing connection to the team he once raced for.
Vettel’s Early Talks With Marko About Future Role
Vettel revealed to Austrian broadcaster ORF that conversations with Helmut Marko have commenced, though they remain preliminary.
“We’re in contact about this, though maybe not so intensively or in-depth yet, but it’s possible,”
he said. Vettel acknowledged that Marko has previously indicated plans to retire but added he hopes Marko continues for a long time. He emphasized the importance that the successor should build upon Marko’s legacy rather than merely replace him.
Verstappen Reflects on Vettel’s Place at Red Bull
Verstappen, who has followed in Vettel’s footsteps with his own string of titles at Red Bull, emphasized that Vettel’s achievements and history with the team ensure a role is available for him.
“It’s more than normal that someone that has achieved so much with Red Bull, has been brought up by Red Bull … that in a sense there’s always a spot available, right?”
Verstappen said before the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring. He noted Vettel’s enduring good relationship with Marko and expressed confidence that Red Bull would welcome Vettel back in some form.
Helmut Marko’s Role and Future at Red Bull
Helmut Marko, who has played a central role in Red Bull’s driver management since its inception in 2005, currently serves as a key advisor under Dietrich Mateschitz, the team’s late co-founder. Marko will be 84 in 2026, when his current contract expires, and his continuation beyond that point remains uncertain. He acknowledged the challenge involved in appointing his successor to maintain the high standards expected by shareholders Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya.
Marko commented on the succession question in an interview with Kleine Zeitung, saying,
“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.”
He also noted,
“We’re not talking specifically about the position, but [Sebastian] is keeping a very close eye on everything.”
Implications for Red Bull’s Future Leadership
The potential return of Sebastian Vettel in an advisory capacity represents a significant continuity move for Red Bull. Vettel’s deep knowledge of the team and longstanding ties to Marko could provide stability during a key period of transition starting in 2026. For Verstappen, who has thrived under Red Bull’s system following Vettel’s era, having his predecessor involved in shaping future driver development and team strategy could be valuable.
With Red Bull poised to face change at the leadership level in the next few years, discussions around Vettel’s advisory role underline the team’s intent to maintain strong internal experience alongside evolving its leadership. Marko’s eventual departure will mark the end of an influential chapter, with Vettel as a viable candidate to help guide Red Bull’s next generation of talent and decision-making.
