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Marko: Horner Ouster Sooner Would Mean Verstappen Title
15 Dec
Summary
- Marko believes Verstappen would have won title if Horner left earlier.
- Marko accuses Horner of seeking sole control after Mateschitz's death.
- Marko claims Horner played 'dirty tricks' and fabricated stories.
Departing Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko controversially stated that Max Verstappen would have clinched the 2025 world championship if former team principal Christian Horner had left the team sooner. Marko, who is set to leave Red Bull at the conclusion of 2025, suggested that Horner's alleged power plays after Dietrich Mateschitz's 2022 death were detrimental to the team's performance. Marko contends that Horner actively sought to consolidate control with co-owner Chalerm Yoovidhya, undermining the Austrian-based leadership.
Marko detailed a tense relationship with Horner, describing it as a power struggle rather than personal animosity. He claimed that Horner's actions, including alleged "dirty tricks" and fabricated stories, negatively impacted the team's operations. Marko cited instances where he believed Horner's camp spread misinformation, such as claims about engine development delays and Sergio Perez's performance, aiming to undermine him.
The Red Bull advisor indicated that his decision to leave was finalized during the season's final races, influenced by the team's internal dynamics and the missed championship opportunity. Marko expressed deep disappointment over Verstappen's narrow loss in the title race, which he felt solidified his conviction that it was the appropriate moment to step away from the team.
