Sebastian Vettel Reacts to Red Bull ‘Architect’ Helmut Marko’s Departure
Published: Dec 12, 2025
Arthur Jones
Writer
"I was as surprised as anyone else," Vettel told F1 Insider.
Sebastian Vettel, the first major success story to come out of Helmut Marko’s driver programme at Red Bull, has paid tribute to the Austrian following news of his departure.
Marko, who spent 20 years managing drivers for Red Bull and its junior team, now known as AlphaTauri, announced his retirement earlier this week.
During his tenure, 20 drivers graduated to Formula 1 under his guidance, with three—Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, and Max Verstappen- going on to win grand prix races. Vettel and Verstappen, in particular, are both four-time world champions, amassing a combined total of 124 grand prix victories, 109 of which were achieved while racing for Red Bull or its second team, Toro Rosso (as it was in 2008).
Vettel had at one point been considered as a potential successor to Marko, but he hopes the “founder” of Red Bull’s F1 success enjoys a well-earned retirement.
"I wish Helmut all the best for his further path and a well-deserved retirement. He is the architect of the success of Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso.
"Not only where driver selection was concerned, but also important decisions about team composition, personnel and strategy went through him.
"Helmut can call himself the founder of Red Bull Racing's success in Formula 1."
