Marko puts an end to discussions about Vettel's return and Verstappen's departure.

      "It's a full-time position."

      Dr. Helmut Marko has dampened speculation about Sebastian Vettel's potential return to Red Bull in an advisory capacity. Following Christian Horner's internal conflicts last year and recent dismissal, Marko, who now holds more power at Red Bull, stated there is no opportunity for a replacement.

      "The whole situation didn’t progress further because we had more than enough to handle with the restructuring of the team at Red Bull Racing," he told Sport1 in Hungary. Marko also recommended that the four-time world champion Vettel should simply relish his retirement with his family.

      "It’s a full-time position," he remarked. "You can’t just do it for a few races. I don’t believe the requirements from our side match his circumstances." Interest in Vettel's return peaked earlier in 2025, as he was reportedly engaged in serious discussions about taking over Marko's role as Red Bull's motorsport consultant. However, the buzz has recently diminished, and Marko now seems to have definitively closed that chapter.

      The Austrian also commented on ongoing speculation regarding Max Verstappen’s future, which captured headlines in July. When asked by Sport1 if he would have continued at Red Bull had Verstappen chosen to depart, Marko responded: "My contract extends until the end of 2026. We’ll see what unfolds then."

      When inquired if his contract includes performance clauses akin to those rumored in Verstappen’s deal, Marko laughed: "No, none based on championship standings."