Red Bull won both titles this season, but the team’s internal politics could cause problems in Milton Keynes.
Max Verstappen would rather Red Bull part ways with team principal Christian Horner than advisor Helmut Marko, according to former F1 driver turned expert Ralf Schumacher.
This discussion was sparked by reports from Brazilian media outlet Globo, which suggested that Marko would leave his duties with the team at the end of the season.
Speaking to Sky Sports Germany about the issue, Schumacher explained:
“Previously there were rumors that AlphaTauri would be sold. But then this deal was blocked by Salzburg because it was another wish of the late Didi Mateschitz. “It was then decided that further support was needed. Christian Horner took the opportunity to declare in turn:
If I have to provide more support, I also have to have more influence.
“The original ownership family was of the view that it was not necessary to have two teams in Formula 1. I now feel that Horner should take the AlphaTauri theme and ensure that “The team achieves as much success as possible to achieve this, eventually.” can sell at a higher price at a certain point in time. That’s the intention behind it.
Schumacher then explained Verstappen’s position on the matter, suggesting:
“The relationship between Dr Marko and Verstappen should not be underestimated. “Dr Marko promoted him early on and is still by his side. We hear that Verstappen will not forgive him, but instead could do without Horner.”
Marko has rarely been in the news in 2023, not least for his targeted comments about Red Bull driver Sergio Perez, but also for his treatment of rookie Nyck de Vries, who he fought to join the team over the winter.
The Austrian found himself in a difficult position earlier this year, telling ServusTV:
“Remember that he (Perez) is South American and therefore he is not as focused as Max Verstappen or Sebastian Vettel.”
In addition to this controversy, AlphaTauri’s disappointing performance this season has not helped the atmosphere. The Faenza-based team sits last in the constructors’ championship standings after 17 races with just five points for itself.
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