Red Bull Confirm Surprise Name as Helmut Marko Replacement for 2026 F1 Season

Red Bull have reportedly decided on Helmut Marko's replacement ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Marko, 82, has been an influential figure in the Red Bull set-up over the last 20 years.

During his time with the team, the Austrian has played a part in the development of around 20 drivers, most notably Max Verstappen, who became a four-time world champion.

Last week, following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign, it was confirmed that Marko had left the team.

Marko said: "I have been involved in motorsport for six decades now, and the past 20-plus years at Red Bull have been an extraordinary and extremely successful journey.

"It has been a wonderful time that I have been able to help shape and share with so many talented people. Everything we have built and achieved together fills me with pride."

He added: "Narrowly missing out on the world championship this season has moved me deeply and made it clear to me that now is the right moment for me personally to end this very long, intense, and successful chapter."

Helmut Marko has left Red Bull. Image: Getty

Meanwhile, Red Bull director Oliver Mintzlaff said: "Helmut approached me with the wish to end his role as motorsport adviser at the end of the year. I deeply regret his decision, as he has been an influential figure for more than two decades, and his departure marks the end of an extraordinary era."

Looking ahead, it has been claimed that Red Bull have now decided on Marko's replacement.

According to GP Blog, Guillaume 'Rocky' Rocquelin will now have sole responsibility of the role as Head of the Driver Academy, having had Marko by his side before his departure.

Guillaume Rocquelin will take sole responsibility of the Head of the Driver Academy role. Image: Getty

The report said: "Guillaume 'Rocky' Rocquelin has become the primary point of contact for the Red Bull Junior Team.

"Guillaume Rocquelin—affectionately known as ‘Rocky’—remains Head of the Driver Academy, but now takes on the role independently, without Marko by his side. Rocquelin is a well-established figure within Red Bull Racing, having previously served as Sebastian Vettel’s race engineer."

Next season, Verstappen will have Isack Hadjar as his teammate at Red Bull, with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad driving for sister team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.