Sebastian Vettel Tipped for SHOCK Red Bull Return as Verstappen to Mercedes U...read more

Vettel Tipped for Stunning Red Bull Return as Verstappen to Mercedes Update Delivered

Red Bull Racing could soon welcome back a familiar face, as long-time advisor Helmut Marko has suggested that four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel may return to the team in a leadership role. The comments come amid ongoing uncertainty around Max Verstappen’s long-term future with Red Bull and swirling rumours of a potential switch to Mercedes.

In an interview that’s sent shockwaves through the paddock, Marko named Vettel as his potential successor, saying the German racing legend would be a perfect fit for his current position as Red Bull’s motorsport advisor. The role involves overseeing the team’s junior driver program and having a significant influence on team strategy and driver management.

“Sebastian would be an ideal successor,” Marko said. “He knows Red Bull inside out, has a great technical understanding, and is still very passionate about racing. He’s not just a former driver – he’s a thinker, and he understands how we operate.”

Vettel, who clinched all four of his world titles with Red Bull between 2010 and 2013, retired from Formula 1 at the end of the 2022 season. While he has since focused on environmental activism and family life, Vettel has kept the door slightly ajar regarding a return to the sport in a non-driving capacity. His growing presence at various F1 events and frequent conversations with key figures within the sport have only added fuel to speculation.

Meanwhile, the Verstappen saga continues to unfold. Despite being under contract with Red Bull until the end of the 2028 season, the Dutch driver’s frustration with the team’s performance and internal politics has sparked questions about his loyalty. Following a disappointing Bahrain Grand Prix and a contentious penalty at the Saudi Arabian GP, Verstappen publicly voiced his discontent, deepening speculation that he might seek a new challenge elsewhere.

Mercedes, still adjusting to life after Lewis Hamilton’s shock move to Ferrari, had been loosely linked with a potential bid for Verstappen. But team principal Toto Wolff has firmly denied any formal discussions with the reigning champion.

“We haven’t had a conversation with Max,” Wolff stated. “We’re focused on our current drivers and long-term development. Max is with Red Bull, and there’s no reason to assume he won’t stay there. The rumors are just that—rumors.”

With Red Bull’s internal situation under close scrutiny and their top star’s future in question, the idea of bringing Vettel back into the fold could be a strategic move to restore harmony and ensure continuity at the top. His deep understanding of the team culture and reputation as a respected figure in the sport make him a strong candidate for such a high-profile return.

As F1 heads toward the Miami Grand Prix, all eyes will be on Red Bull not just for their on-track performance, but for what could be a major off-track shift that brings one of the sport’s greats back into the spotlight in a brand-new role.