Why does Helmut Marko think Max Verstappen lost the 2025 F1 title?

Helmut Marko believes Max Verstappen would have won the 2025 F1 title if Christian Horner had been removed from his team principal role earlier.

What did Helmut Marko say about Christian Horner's actions?

Marko accused Horner of playing 'dirty tricks' and attempting to seize control of Red Bull after the death of co-owner Dietrich Mateschitz.

When is Helmut Marko leaving Red Bull Racing?

Helmut Marko is set to depart Red Bull Racing at the end of the 2025 season.

Home / Sports / Marko: Horner Ouster Sooner Would Mean Verstappen Title

Marko: Horner Ouster Sooner Would Mean Verstappen Title

15 Dec

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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.

Marko: Horner Ouster Sooner Would Mean Verstappen Title

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.