Christian Horner found it ‘humorous’ to read stories about increasing tensions with Helmut Marko

Christian Horner and Helmut Marko were rumored to be in a power struggle at Red Bull.

Christian Horner found it ‘humorous’ to read stories about increasing tensions with Helmut Marko

Christian Horner and Helmut Marko (Via IMAGO)

Red Bull Racing is spearheaded by Team Principal Christian Horner. However, Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko has held a strong influence at Milton Keynes. Previously, rumors had surfaced that tensions were rising between the two. Now, Horner has addressed these rumors to clarify the situation.

The Red Bull team boss reckoned that the stories about these rumors were simply amusing. Horner pointed out that things are now blown way out of proportion in the media by giving an example of a pebble drifting its way in the ocean from Brazil to Europe. The Briton was convinced that such speculation was the cause of Red Bull’s domination in 2023.

There is a certain degree of humour, reading some of the stories. It is amazing these days how a pebble can be dropped in the water in Brazil, and it can end up in a wave when it has reached Europe.
Christian Horner said as reported by RacingNews365

Christian Horner reckoned that the paddock has not much to talk about the Austrian team. Subsequently, rumors about tensions between Horner and Marko began to surface. Nevertheless, the 50-year-old made it clear that he continues to share a good relationship with Helmut Marko since the two first met 27 years ago.

FS Video
I think it also demonstrates that as we've tied up both championships, there's not a lot to be talking about, so it's very easy for others to wind the situation up.
 Helmut and I have had a great relationship since 1996 when I first met him, we have a very strong working relationship and nothing has changed.

Helmut Marko’s current contract with Red Bull ends in 2024

Dr. Helmut Marko serves as the Motorsport Consultant for Red Bull GmbH. Subsequently, Red Bull Racing has no direct influence on the 80-year-old. However, Marko has faced many controversies recently including the allegedly racist and xenophobic comments toward Sergio Perez. It was believed that Horner was keen on getting rid of the Austrian in a bid to have complete control of the team.

Dr. Helmut Marko
Dr. Helmut Marko (Via IMAGO)

However, it was soon reported that Max Verstappen gave Red Bull an ultimatum. The Dutchman made it clear that he would leave the team if Marko was shown the door. Nevertheless, Helmut Marko’s influence has declined since the death of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Matechitz. Moreover, the 80-year-old would soon be holding talks with Red Bull as his contract expires at the end of next year.

Certainly, Dr. Helmut Marko would likely stay with Red Bull. The 80-year-old has overseen the team’s operations since day one. With Marko soon became infamous for his cut-throat approach. However, it would be interesting to see how the relationship between Christian Horner and Helmut Marko evolves in the coming months.

In case you missed it: