Helmut Marko reveals Christian Horner took over late Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz’s role at Milton Keynes amidst rumored power struggle
Christian Horner now holds multiple roles at Red Bull, with Helmut Marko noting the challenges of replacing the late Dietrich Mateschitz.
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Max Verstappen, Helmut Marko and Christian Horner (via IMAGO)
The late Dietrich Mateschitz, an Austrian businessman, co-founded Red Bull and played a crucial role in transforming it into a market leader. He pioneered innovative sports marketing strategies, especially in motorsport. Since Mateschitz’s passing, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko acknowledged that team principal Christian Horner has stepped up to take on a significant leadership role.
Mateschitz’s death had a notable impact on Red Bull Racing, given his instrumental role in the team’s growth and success. However, the team’s leadership, particularly Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, quickly adapted to maintain performance.
Red Bull Racing has continued to thrive in Formula 1 until 2023 but presently they’re not in where they want to be. Horner has also taken additional responsibilities, managing multiple roles to keep the team running. Despite his efforts, Marko emphasizes that replacing someone as influential and visionary as Mateschitz isn’t simple.
Dietrich Mateschitz has been replaced by Horner, so this replacement has changed a lot in the structure. Horner has just taken on multiple roles, but when such an exceptional personality disappears (Dietrich) there is a big change overall.
Helmut Marko told Motorsport Magzine
Marko acknowledges that despite off-track issues and a recent drop in performance on the track, the team’s work isn’t done until the final race in Abu Dhabi. He noted that issues involving Horner added some internal tension at Red Bull. However, both he and Horner understand that they need to work together to create a competitive car to win races. This would ensure Max Verstappen stays committed to the team and avoid activating his exit clause.
The story with Horner certainly didn’t help. But we have come to the conclusion that we have to work together. To get a winning car and keep Max.
Helmut Marko added
There have also been rumors of a power struggle within the team, especially after the Briton took on a larger role following Mateschitz’s death. While Horner has support from Red Bull’s Thai stakeholders, Marko stresses the need to focus on their shared goal of winning the championship.
Helmut Marko admits 2023 season will not be repeated again
Red Bull and Max Verstappen dominated the 2023 season, creating a nightmare for other teams. Together, they won almost every race, with Verstappen taking 19 victories and Sergio Perez winning two. This set a record for the most wins in a single season for the Dutchman.
Helmut Marko acknowledged that the 2023 season was exceptional and believes they won’t be able to repeat such a performance. He explained that consistently winning every grand prix is unrealistic in Formula 1 due to the sport’s unpredictability.
The 2023 season was unique. It was certain that it could not continue like this in motorsport. You cannot win every Grand Prix.
Helmut Marko expressed
Red Bull is currently experiencing what Marko had anticipated. Earlier in the season, they showcased the same performance level from 2023. However, as the season progressed, several teams improved their car’s speed, preventing Max Verstappen and Red Bull from winning races.
They saw a significant drop in performance and lost the lead in the Constructors’ Championship. Red Bull must now regain their lead in the final six races while also defending Verstappen’s position in the Drivers’ Championship.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)