F1: Advisor Helmut Marko to leave Red Bull

10:23 am today
Dr. Helmut Marko, Director of Red Bull F1 and head of Red Bull's driver development programme.

Dr. Helmut Marko, Director of Red Bull F1 and head of Red Bull's driver development programme. Photo: PETERSON Mark / PHOTOSPORT

* This story has been updated to correct the decade Helmut Marko raced in Formula 1.

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko is to leave the Formula 1 team.

The 82-year-old has been with the outfit since they joined Formula 1 in 2005.

The Telegraph is reporting that Marko will head into retirement.

Marko, who drove in Formula 1 in the early seventies, had indicated after Monday's season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that he would take the break between championships to consider his future.

Team Principal Christian Horner left mid-season and was replaced by Laurent Mekies.

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko and driver Liam Lawson.

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko and driver Liam Lawson. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Marko has been a long time supporter of four-time world champion Max Verstappen.

Marko would have also played a key part in the hiring of New Zealander Liam Lawson in 2023 and the decision to keep him at Racing Bulls last week.

The Austrian was left blinded in one eye after debris pierced his visor during the French Grand Prix. He retired shortly afterwards.

During his time with Red Bull the team won six world constructors' championships, while Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen won four drivers' championships each.

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