BREAKING: Sebastian Vettel Responds to Red Bull Return Talk, Says “There’s O…read more
Sebastian Vettel Responds to Red Bull Return Talk, Says “There’s Only One Helmut”
Former four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has addressed recent speculation linking him to a potential return to Red Bull in a managerial capacity, potentially stepping into the shoes of long-serving advisor Dr. Helmut Marko.
The rumours gained traction last month when the 82-year-old Marko himself named Vettel as his “ideal successor” when he eventually retires from his pivotal role within the Red Bull Racing structure.
Speaking on Sky Germany’s Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Vettel was asked about Marko’s comments and the prospect of taking on such a position. While acknowledging the challenging nature of the role, Vettel played down the direct suggestion of replacing the Austrian motorsport veteran.
“I think there’s only one Helmut. That’s Helmut’s role,” Vettel stated.
He added, “Yes, I think the challenge is quite inspiring overall, and of course, the experiences Helmut and I have in certain respects are similar. He also grew up in motorsport, in a totally different era, but essentially, the wheel still turns the same way. It’s still about the same thing as it was, I don’t know how long ago, even though the formula has significantly changed since then.”
Marko, a crucial figure in Red Bull’s success, has been instrumental in shaping their driver academy and is credited with discovering and nurturing talents like Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, and Max Verstappen. Given his age, his eventual retirement is anticipated.
Marko had praised Vettel’s potential for the role, telling Sky Germany, “He’s already working with girls here in the go-karts in Saudi Arabia. And on the other side, of course, there’s the great strategic leadership of his Formula 1 team.”
Since retiring from F1 at the end of the 2022 season, Vettel has largely remained out of the F1 paddock, focusing on spending time with his family and engaging in other motorsport-related projects.
While the managerial link to Red Bull was discussed, a return to competitive driving appears highly unlikely for the German. Vettel had been briefly mentioned in connection with the vacant Mercedes seat for 2025 (which ultimately went to Kimi Antonelli) and Audi’s 2026 project (where Nico Hülkenberg is now confirmed).
Vettel revealed that his children are happy with him being home and have expressed that they don’t want him to race again. “The family peace still exists!” Vettel joked. “My children told me I’m not allowed to race anymore because they like it so much that I am there. That’s of course wonderful, hearing something like that.”
Vettel’s comments suggest that while he respects Marko and the challenges of F1 leadership, he views Marko’s position as unique and isn’t immediately lining himself up as a direct replacement, reinforcing his current focus on life away from the intense demands of Formula 1 team management or driving.
