Source:REUTERS/HAMAD I MOHAMMED
[Saba Sports News] On the eve of the official announcement of his departure, Helmut Marko called Red Bull junior driver Nikola Tsolov to clearly state that the operation of the system would not change because of his leaving. This call set the tone for the post-Mark era in Red Bull’s junior program. Feedback from several young drivers indicates that this promise is being fulfilled.
Records show that from 2005 to 2025, Marko served as the senior advisor for Red Bull F1 and the head of the driver academy, making him a key figure in Red Bull’s junior system. He officially stepped down after the 2025 season. The day before the announcement, he contacted Tsolov, who was then participating in the Abu Dhabi test. Tsolov revealed that Marko stated, “Everything will remain the same, and I hope you continue to win races.” He indicated that the structure Marko built is still operating efficiently, with no changes in training, assessment, or promotion paths. The current head of the Red Bull junior program has continued the existing model.
The editor believes that Red Bull’s junior program has always been known for its results, having developed both Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel, two four-time champions, and many other race winners. Now, although there has been a change in leadership, the intensity of simulator training, engineering support, and physical testing remains the same as before, demonstrating maturity. After Marko’s departure, the system has not weakened; the stage and opportunities are still there.