Red Bull declined Vettel's replacement of Marko.

      "I find it improbable that he will join Red Bull."

      It seems "improbable" that Sebastian Vettel will be taking over Dr. Helmut Marko's role at Red Bull anytime soon. Both the four-time world champion and Marko, the brand's long-time motorsport consultant who is 82, have hinted in recent months about a potential succession. However, with Marko’s position and his contract valid until 2026, it appears more stable, especially as he was reportedly involved in a scheme to remove Christian Horner. When asked about Vettel, Marko recently remarked: "There’s no reason for excitement. At some point, we will have to consider my successor. There are many potential names, but nothing definitive or any real discussions yet."

      German racing icon Hans-Joachim Stuck also believes that 38-year-old Vettel would be "entirely the wrong choice" for Red Bull. Nevertheless, Vettel told ORF’s Sport am Sonntag that while his last two teams in Formula 1 were Ferrari and Aston Martin, he still feels closest to Red Bull. Some speculate that the German may regret his transition from Red Bull to Ferrari in 2015. "I don’t regret the move itself," Vettel now asserts. "I feel it provided me with valuable experience and insight," he stated.

      However, he has some slight regrets regarding how his departure from Red Bull unfolded. "I think the human aspect was somewhat overlooked," said Vettel, noting that he "adhered too strictly to certain agreements." He seems to be referencing keeping his Ferrari contract confidential from people like Marko, who had guided him in his journey to F1. "I believe it would have been more dignified to simply be upfront and not strictly abide by that clause," Vettel remarked. "Still, I had an excellent time and maintain a great relationship with everyone I worked with back then," he added, reflecting on the camaraderie and shared experiences. "Even though I enjoyed my time at Ferrari, a significant part of me still connects with Red Bull and Red Bull Racing."

      Former F1 driver and now outspoken analyst Ralf Schumacher thinks it is improbable that Vettel will don a Red Bull uniform soon. "I find it unlikely that he will join Red Bull," he stated on Sky Deutschland’s Backstage Boxengasse program. "I believe it was a one-sided situation. From what I’ve gathered, he received a definitive ‘no,’ so it’s not even a topic for discussion."