Helmut Marko is the latest figure in the spotlight at Red Bull Racing after saying he is subject to an investigation from Red Bull GmbH following the controversy surrounding Christian Horner.
The Red Bull team principal was investigated as a result of an allegation of inappropriate behavior, but the grievance from a female colleague was dismissed just over a week ago. The complainant has now been suspended by Red Bull, and Marko (pictured at left, above, with team manager Jonathan Wheatley) suggests he too could be suspended after revealing he is being investigated himself for what RACER understands to be matters relating to leaks of information.
“It’s difficult to judge,” Marko told ORF on whether he’ll be present at the next race in Australia in his role. “But at the end of the day, I’ll decide for myself what to do … There is always the theoretical possibility (of being suspended).”
Marko later told Sky Germany that he is set to have a meeting with the CEO of Red Bull’s corporate projects, Oliver Mintzlaff, on Saturday, but threw further doubt on his future by adding: “Everything has to be right so that I want to continue working there.”
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Marko is employed by Red Bull GmbH rather than Red Bull Racing, and the team declined to comment, stating it was a matter for the parent company.
The focus on Marko is heightened due to recent reports — at this stage unverified by RACER — that Max Verstappen has a clause in his contract that could allow him to leave Red Bull should Marko depart. On the topic of Verstappen, the 80-year-old was clear that the team needs to do all it can to ensure he remains amid speculation he could join Mercedes in future.
“Max is definitely the strongest asset — there are no faster drivers at the moment. Losing him, that would be a huge loss,” Marko said. “Also for the mechanics and engineers, who all strive to work for Max.”