Helmut Marko is one of the most divisive figures in Formula 1. He is respected for his success with young drivers. But his approach with the unsuccessful drivers and his archaic views have earned the wrath of many. This year, he has been a PR nightmare for Red Bull. From the failed appointment of Nyck de Vries to racist remarks on Sergio Perez, he has done it all. And every time, Christian Horner has had to clean up the mess. Rumours are growing in the Formula 1 paddock that Christian Horner is ready to drop Helmut Marko.
Rumours of the Rift
It is apparently well-known that the new management of the Red Bull parent company aren’t happy with Helmut Marko. However, Red Bull Racing boss Christian Horner has always supported him in Formula 1. But, rumours are that it is getting tiring.
The supposed hiring of Nyck de Vries against Horner’s judgement is supposed to be one of the tipping points. Helmut Marko jumped the gun based on just one Formula 1 performance.
That, and the racist remarks around current Red Bull driver Sergio Perez are apparently too much for Christian Horner. People are speculating that the decision about his future in Formula 1 will be taken this week at a summit.
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Christian Horner’s Comments
Christian Horner called Helmut Marko a nightmare for a Formula 1 PR Manager in August. He said, “He’s a communication manager’s nightmare. When he goes rogue, then you guys [the media] only have to prod him and you’ll get a headline.”
Later on, he also had to make some statements for his racist remarks after the Formula 1 race in Singapore. He diverted all responsibility for comments and gave an uncharacteristic answer.
He said, “His [Marko’s] contract is with Red Bull GmbH. He’s not an employee, he’s not on the payroll of Red Bull Racing.”
“To be a director doesn’t mean that you are automatically an employee, as we see with other companies if you look at who the directorships are, so his reporting line and structure is to Red Bull GmbH so that doesn’t sit on our books.”
Also Read: Lance Stroll apologizes to the FIA for his behavior at the Qatar GP
Helmut Marko’s Response
Helmut Marko has laid all these Formula 1 rumours to rest. He said, “There is no summit this week. I have a contract until the end of next year. When and how I stop, when it’s over, I decide and not, for example, Mr. Horner.”
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