Former four-time drivers' world champions Sebastian Vettel is set to return to Red Bull in a technical role. Photo: AFP
Image: AFP
Four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel is weighing his options regarding the succession of Helmut Marko in the role of advisor to Red Bull.
The 37-year-old German driver said he has been in contact with Marko, 83, about the position but is waiting for him to call it quits on his own terms. Vettel said he trusted the Austrian racing fundi’s judgement, calling him a “realistic guy”.
Vettel won four titles with Red Bull from 2010 to 2013.
Marko joined Red Bull in 2005 as an advisor to co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz and evolved into a decision-making figure, overseeing current and emerging talent within the team’s ranks. Now seasoned in his role and possibly approaching the final laps of his career, Marko still shows no signs of stepping aside.
“He’s already said a few times that he’d stop,” said Vettel, "but he’s still here, and I wish him all the best so that he stays around for a very long time. But of course, eventually time catches up with everyone, and I believe he knows that too.
"He’s a brutally realistic guy and is very good at sizing up situations. I think he’ll recognise when the time is right.
“I don’t think he’s replaceable, let’s put it that way. He’s quite a character and has made a very big contribution to what the whole team has achieved over the years since 2005.
"I don’t think the goal is to have someone come in who simply replaces him. But maybe, whoever it is, it would be nice if the work he’s put in is carried on. There’s a lot that can still be learned from him, and the role will inevitably be filled differently,” Vettel told, an Austrian media outlet.
Marko has also acknowledged that the four-time world champion is in the conversation for the coveted Red Bull role. However, he said the final decision rests with the shareholders.
“We’re not talking specifically about the position, but (Sebastian) is keeping a very close eye on everything.
“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,” said Marko.