Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel is in talks about a comeback to the sport he once dominated, albeit not in a racing seat.
Vettel is in early talks with Red Bull supremo Helmut Marko, whose official title is senior advisor, about eventually succeeding the Austrian.
Marko is contracted to the team until the end of 2026. He is yet to confirm whether or not he intends to stay on into 2027, by which time he’ll be 84.
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Helmut Marko and Vettel celebrate the latter’s maiden world championship in 2010. Darren Heath via Getty Images
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, Vettel said he was open to the idea, but conceded he was unsure what such a move would look like.
“There have been some headlines, and I still get on really well with Helmut,” Vettel told Austrian broadcaster ORF.
“We’re also in contact about this, though maybe not so intensively or in-depth yet, but it’s possible. What form that might take will have to be seen.”
Marko was originally hired by late Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz to be his eyes and ears within the team when it entered the sport back in 2005. Over time, the role has evolved to the point where he’s effectively solely responsible for hiring and firing drivers within the two Red Bull teams.
Vettel (right) with Mick Schumacher at the Race of Champions in Sydney in March. Getty
But Vettel, who won his titles in successive years from 2010-2013, isn’t convinced Marko will leave the sport when his contract ends.
“He’s already said a few times he’d stop, but he’s still here,” he said.
“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.”
When asked his thoughts, Marko said a decision on his replacement would be one for shareholders rather than him.
“We’re not talking specifically about the position, but [Sebastian] is keeping a very close eye on everything,” Marko told Kneine Zeitung.
“… The profile we need is very broad and very demanding – it’s set at the highest level.
“The two shareholders, Mark Mateschitz and Chalerm Yoovidhya, are there as well with their own ideas.”
Track action at the Red Bull Ring begins on Friday night (AEST), with the race to begin at 11pm Sunday.
Oscar Piastri has a 22-point lead in the standings over McLaren teammate Lando Norris.
