Helmut Marko: Everything went perfectly in Suzuka

In an interview with OE24 after the winning double in Suzuka, Red Bull consultant Helmut Marko spoke about the weekend’s results and personnel issues…

Question: Do you have anything to say about the Japanese Grand Prix from Red Bull’s point of view?
Helmut Marko: No. Everything went perfectly, from the first to the last lap. As well as three incredible pit stops – two seconds each.

Question: Are your rivals congratulating you on your title yet?
Helmut Marko: Don’t ask such questions. There are only four races left, twenty to go. In Melbourne we saw how quickly things can change. Ferrari cars are fast and reliable, we can’t write them off.

Question: Toto Wolff and Mercedes seem to have given up. How do you understand Toto’s words: “Nobody can overtake Max”?
Helmut Marko:He repeated my words that we have a good car, but Max makes the difference. Everything was already set in Suzuka, but then Max left the best lap behind him on worn tires. Not just that, but to make my point clear: “Others are only here to finish second!”

Question: It is claimed that team boss Christian Horner wants the Thai owners of Red Bull to believe that Thai Alex Albon can become world champion in your car. Do you think this is possible?
Helmut Marko: For this Albon has to get into our car. But he still has a contract with Williams until the end of 2025.

Question: Red Bull’s contract with Perez expires at the end of this year. Are you going to extend it?
Helmut Marko: We don’t feel any pressure. This decision also depends on Audi. When we have enough information, we will make a decision on the riders.

There are several options. Our team is working very well now. Offering Perez a two-year contract could help him relax.

Question: You said yourself that Sebastian Vettel wants to return to Formula 1. Mercedes is probably no longer an option. How about going back to Red Bull?
Helmut Marko: What? Vettel back at Red Bull? No, this won’t happen.

Question: Are you involved in negotiations about the composition of the team in 2025?
Helmut Marko: I discuss everything with Mr. Horner. Everything is as usual.

Question: There are rumors that the RB junior team is for sale. This is true?
Helmut Marko: There are several stakeholders, but ultimately it is the decision of the shareholders. The team is expensive, but nothing has been decided yet.