Former Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has ruled out an immediate return to Formula 1 following his exit from the Austrian outfit, but has confirmed he is being "updated daily".
It was announced following the conclusion of the 2025 campaign that Marko would leave Red Bull, having been with the Milton Keynes-based outfit since the very beginning.
He played a critical role in the creation of Red Bull's junior programme, which has produced the likes of Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
Marko was particularly close with Verstappen, to the extent that the Dutchman was prepared to leave Red Bull a couple of years ago if the 82-year-old had been ousted.
While no longer in the paddock, Marko has continued to keep a close eye on F1, and in particular the new power unit regulations.
The Austrian expects Mercedes to potentially have an early advantage, although he has also highlighted the significance of each team’s fuel.
For Red Bull, it faces the additional challenge of becoming a powertrain supplier in its own right, with Marko warning that it must keep working hard to retain Verstappen.
"Mercedes may have a small advantage, but can they turn that into success properly?" Marko questioned to Blick.
"After all, fuel also plays an important role this time. Red Bull has worked well with its own engine so far - and they have to continue to do that if you want to keep Verstappen happy."
The current pre-season testing period marks the first for Marko not involved in F1. For now, he has no intention of returning.
"I don't feel an urge to go back to the races yet, but I will keep myself updated daily," said Marko.
"And I will be in front of the TV at 5 a.m. in Australia."
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