Helmut Marko reportedly fears Christian Horner saga could cause Red Bull to lose $125 billion worth engine partner
Red Bull's 2026 Power unit partner Ford has publicly expressed its frustration over Christian Horner's inappropriate behavior allegations.
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Christian Horner and Helmut Marko (Via IMAGO), Ford logo (Via Ford)
Christian Horner‘s inappropriate behavior investigation concluded on the eve of the Bahrain GP. The 50-year-old was cleared of allegations. However, things took a turn after an alleged evidence leak caused massive controversy. This has led to increasing tensions within the team including Max Verstappen‘s father Jos Verstappen’s public outburst on Horner. Now reports have emerged of more concerns within the team.
Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko reportedly fears that the entire situation surrounding Christian Horner could see Milton Keynes lose Ford as its partner for 2026. The $125 billion carmaker joined forces with Red Bull Powertrains for the new F1 power unit regulations which commence in 2026. However, the recent controversies regarding Christian Horner could force Ford to rethink its partnership.
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The American giant had made it clear that it expected high standards of behavior and integrity from Red Bull. This statement was released when Christian Horner was put under investigation. However, Ford publicly expressed its frustration as Red Bull GmbH refused to reveal any details about the entire case. Subsequently, Helmut Marko’s concerns might not be out of place for the time being.
Red Bull might lose Max Verstappen and Adrian Newey amidst Christian Horner saga
Max Verstappen’s father Jos Verstappen has not held back his criticism against Horner over the current situation. However, the ex-F1 driver made it clear that he was not behind the alleged evidence leak regarding Christian Horner’s case. Although, as per reports, the former Benetton driver might influence his son Max Verstappen to leave Red Bull if Horner is not removed from Milton Keynes.
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Moreover, F1 aero genius Adrian Newey‘s relationship with Christian Horner has reportedly declined amidst the allegations. So much so, that Newey might consider leaving Red Bull if the 50-year-old continues to serve as the Team Principal.
Certainly, Christian Horner’s recent allegations have put Red Bull in a difficult spot. There have been reports of Helmut Marko aligning with Dietrich Mateschitz’s son to potentially oust the Briton. However, for now, there has been no action taken on the 50-year-old. As such, it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds in the coming days.
In case you missed it:
- Toto Wolff reopens the door for ‘F1 giant’ Sebastian Vettel’s SHOCK comeback to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes
- “What’s underneath?” Christian Horner’s disturbing s**ual chat with female employee revealed in alleged WhatsApp leak
Armaan Agarwal
(2431 Articles Published)