Dr Helmut Marko is set to receive his full salary for 2026 in a payout from Red Bull as he parts ways with the team at the end of 2025, according to BILD. The sum is thought to be approximately €10million.
The 82-year-old Austrian, who has been with the team since its inception in 2005, decided to step down from his role in the Milton Keynes outfit on Tuesday after being involved in motorsport for six decades. His departure comes a year before his current contract with Red Bull was due to end at the conclusion of 2026.
The report states that, while it was Marko’s decision to leave, the payout comes as part of a ‘golden handshake’ agreement between the Austrian and the squad and is a mark of appreciation for Marko’s achievements with the team.
“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,” Marko said in the Red Bull press release at the time of the announcement.
“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.
“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.
“I wish the entire team continued success and am convinced that they will be fighting for both world championship titles again next year.”
Marko oversaw the Red Bull driver development programme, which saw 16 drivers secure seats in Formula 1, including four-time champions Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, eight-time grand prix winner Daniel Ricciardo, four-time grand prix winner Carlos Sainz and one-time grand prix winner Pierre Gasly, among others.
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