F1 News: Marko Claims Investigation Leak Allegations Was A "Planned Operation"
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko revealed a "cunning" plan to orchestrate his suspension, while team principal Christian Horner clarified that Helmut's potential suspension was unrelated to him. He emphasized that the advisor's contract was with Red Bull GmbH, and not the Red Bull Racing team.
Key Takeaways:
- Rumors suggested Helmut Marko could face suspension amid allegations of leaking information about an investigation into Christian Horner's conduct.
- Marko hinted at a possible suspension, but discussions with Red Bull's managing director clarified no misconduct, ensuring his continuity with the team.
- Marko denied involvement in the leaks, while Horner reaffirmed their professional relationship and the team's ongoing success.
Amid the intense power struggle within Red Bull, rumors surfaced about Marko's potential suspension from the team during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend. Allegations suggested his involvement in leaking information related to the investigation of Christian Horner's conduct.
Marko hinted at the possibility of his suspension, scheduled ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, prompting uncertainty about his future with the team. However, discussions with Red Bull managing director Oliver Mintzlaff on Saturday clarified that Marko had not engaged in any misconduct, ensuring his continuity with the squad.
Speaking ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix with ORF, Marko was asked about the fingers pointing towards him about a leak concerning the investigation on Horner, to which he said:
“Absolute rubbish. I'm really happy when I have my iPhone halfway under control.
“I haven't seen this report or any of these chats. I deliberately stayed out of it. To associate me with it was almost like a planned operation, as I realised. ‘Cunning’, as [Niki] Lauda would say.”
Despite Marko's claims, Horner stated that he was unrelated to happenings surrounding the 80-year-old advisor. He said:
“I think the rumour about suspension was as news to the team as it was to anybody else.
“We were quite surprised to hear that.
“Helmut is a contractor to Red Bull GmbH, so it was an issue between them. We weren't party or part of that discussion.
“I've known Helmut since 1996, and he's played an important role over the years. That role has evolved over the years. I've known him a very, very long time.
“Coming up to 81 years of age, he's still obviously motivated about Formula 1, which is a positive thing.”
Red Bull Content Pool
Horner clarified his relationship with Marko and emphasized the team's success. He added:
“My relationship with Helmut is no issue. I think that he's always outspoken, but that's Helmut.
“Everybody has a role to play no matter what that role is. I think this team has been incredibly successful, and it has had tremendous ability for a long period of time. That has been one of the keys to our success.”