Marko's future as Red Bull's motorsport consultant is in doubt after it emerged in Saudi Arabia that he could face an imminent suspension.
This comes amid an investigation by energy drinks company Red Bull into suspicions about Marco's possible involvement in leaking confidential information to journalists in relation to allegations surrounding team director Christian Horner.
Red Bull was operating under a strict media blackout due to the confidential and private nature of the situation surrounding the allegations made by an employee against Horner.
But although matters were kept behind closed doors and Horner was acquitted of any wrongdoing, this did not prevent information about the case from leaking to the press.
Marco is scheduled to meet Red Bull director Oliver Mintzlaff in Saudi Arabia on Saturday where he can find out his fate and whether or not he will continue in his position.
This decision could be crucial for the future of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, with Max Verstappen making it clear that if Marko leaves, it could also follow him out the door.
Verstappen's departure from Red Bull could be good news for Mercedes, which is interested in trying to sign the Dutchman as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton.
Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO of the Mercedes-AMG F1 Team, on the pit wall
Photography: Sam Bloxham/Motorsport Images
Wolff, the German manufacturer's team principal, has explained how he could make the team more attractive to Verstappen, by bringing Marko into the team to take on a non-executive role like Niki Lauda has been doing.
“We miss the old mascot anyway,” Wolff smiled during an interview with Austrian radio ORG.
“Then we'll just take Helmut. He's the right age. He doesn't have a red hat, but he'll come to us then.”
He added: “Helmut is not a sad kid and he was – or still is – our favorite enemy. But he is a real racer. If they lose Helmut, it will definitely be a loss for Red Bull and for the team.”
Wolff remains open to the idea of a Verstappen move, but realizes his team needs to produce a faster car to convince him.
“We have a seat available in 2025 and 2026,” he said. “But Max will drive where the fastest car is, and today it is a Red Bull.”
Asked if there had been talks with triple world champion Jos's father recently, Wolff said: “We've been talking to each other for 10 years, since Max was in Formula 1.
“I have a good relationship with Joss and also with Max. But that doesn't mean anyone on the professional side will see a change in the short term.”
