Power struggle at Red Bull as board decides on Marko's future

Reports have emerged of internal turmoil at Red Bull despite the team's double championship success in 2023.

According to Brazilian broadcaster O Globo, Red Bull's board of directors will decide on the future of long-time advisor Helmut Marko at a meeting this week.

Marko's position is said to be uncertain amid an apparent power struggle within the team following the death of co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz.

Control of Motorsport operations

Since Mateschitz's passing, Marko and team principal Christian Horner are believed to have clashed over control of Red Bull's motorsport operations.

Horner is said to be gaining influence, backed by Thai shareholders keen to shape Red Bull's direction.

Oliver Mintzlaff, who has advised Red Bull's board since Mateschitz's death, supposedly supports Horner gaining more control.

The power struggle stems from the control of Mateschitz's shareholding after his death.

He willed his stake to son Mark but other Thai investors, including Yoovidhya heirs, want greater sway over Red Bull, including its Formula 1 interests.

Horner supposedly sees this as an opportunity to consolidate his control.

Marko's future uncertain

O Globo's report indicates simmering tensions between the team's key figures. The board's decision on Marko will be an important marker of the power dynamics.

Horner seems to be gaining influence but Marko's long-standing status as Mateschitz's right-hand man may preserve his position.

Perez and Tsunoda face uncertain futures

Meanwhile, Sergio Perez appears vulnerable as Daniel Ricciardo waits in the wings to potentially replace him for 2024.

The Mexican's relationship with Max Verstappen has reportedly deteriorated since the 2021 Brazilian Grand Prix.

At AlphaTauri, Horner apparently seeks to replace Yuki Tsunoda, who is confirmed for 2024, as he doesn't see him as a long-term Red Bull driver.

If Marko departs, it would mark the end of an era and signal Horner's supremacy.

With paddock intrigue and driver rivalries, Red Bull's political situation merits close attention despite its on-track dominance.