Vettel confirms ‘talks’ with Marko over succeeding him at Red Bull

Four-time F1 World champion Sebastian Vettel has admitted that he has spoken with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko about potentially succeeding the Austrian in his position at some point in the future.

Speaking to Sport am Sonntag podcast, Vettel explained: “There have been a few headlines recently. I still get along great with Helmut, and we’re in contact regarding the topic.

“[Talks are] not yet that intensive or in-depth, it’s perhaps something that could play a role. In what form remains to be seen.”

The 37-year-old added that Marko is ‘irreplaceable’ and expressed his hope that the 82-year-old remains in his role for the foreseeable future.

“He’s irreplaceable. Let’s just leave it at that,” Vettel added. “His character alone… and he’s made a very, very significant contribution to what the entire team has achieved over the years since 2005. And perhaps it wouldn’t even be the goal to have someone replace him.

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“He’s said a few times that he’s going to quit, but he’s still here. I hope he stays with us for a long time. But of course, at some point, things will inevitably move on, and he knows that. He’s a brutal realist and can assess things quite well. He’ll sense when the time is right.

“I have to admit, though, that I haven’t been that close in recent years. But I do think I know what he’s doing. And no matter what happens, there’s still a lot to learn from him.”

The German driver enjoyed the peak success of his Formula 1 career with Red Bull, bringing the team their first four Drivers’ and Teams’ titles in a dominant run between 2010 and 2013 before his much talked about switch to Ferrari.

After a moderately successful stint at the Italian team, Vettel moved to Aston Martin before departing the grid following the 2022 season, bowing out of F1 with a total of 53 wins, 122 podiums and 57 pole positions under his belt.