Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull is one of the biggest dominations in the history of Formula 1. At the wheel of the Austrian single-seater between 2009 and 2014, the German driver won the World Championship four times and claimed a whopping 38 victories.
Logically, the four-time world champion left good memories within the team sponsored by the energy drink. So when it comes to preparing the succession to Helmut Marko in his role as sporting advisor and responsible for the young driver sector, the team thinks of its former jewel.
Confirmed contacts
For the 82-year-old manager, whose contract expires at the end of 2026, his former protégé emerges as the man for the job. Discussions between the two men along these lines have already begun.
“There have been some headlines (editor’s note: on the subject) recently, Sebastian Vettel reacted on the ORF TV “Sport on Sunday” podcast. I still get along very well with Helmut, and we are indeed in contact about this.”
The man with 122 podiums in Formula 1, who also spent time with Ferrari and Aston Martin, retired from sports in 2022 with the Silverstone-based team owned by Lawrence Stroll. Can he take on a more political role in the future, having already committed himself to certain causes (environment, LGBT rights, etc.)?
“The discussions are not yet as intense or in-depth,” says the 37-year-old German. In what form I might play a role remains to be seen. Helmut is irreplaceable. Perhaps the objective is not even to replace him.
Still, Sebastian Vettel, father of three children, has the reputation of being a very competitive sportsman, very meticulous and who likes to share his experience with those around him. Ideal for young drivers from the Red Bull Academy, this approach would contrast with that of Helmut Marko.
“Still a lot to learn from him”
“He is a brutal realist who has excellent analytical skills,” says the native of Heppenheim. I haven’t been very close in recent years, but I think I know what he’s doing. And whatever happens, there is still a lot to learn from him.”
Notably the “scouting” and visionary aspects, which have forged the reputation of the Austrian leader. After which, Sebastian Vettel will be perfectly prepared to begin this reconversion. He still has to accept this challenge…
