Dutch analyst Christijan Albers has openly criticised Helmut Marko’s previous management style at Red Bull, describing his approach as that of a ‘bully’. Albers’ comments highlight a perceived shift in the Red Bull organisation’s leadership since Marko’s departure.
Marko, who served as an advisor to Red Bull Racing from 2005, retired from his management roles within the Red Bull structure at the close of the 2025 season. His responsibilities primarily involved driver development and overseeing the Red Bull Junior Team.
Albers suggests that under Marko, there was a constant desire for ‘reuring’, or unrest, concerning driver seats. This contrasts with the current leadership, where Laurent Mekies now serves as CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing.
At Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Peter Bayer is the CEO and Alan Permane holds the Team Principal position. Albers perceives greater stability under this new management structure.
The analyst’s remarks come amidst discussions surrounding Liam Lawson’s future. Lawson is currently competing for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Lawson has demonstrated strong performance this season, currently holding ninth place in the Drivers’ Championship with 75 points. He contributed 61% of Racing Bulls’ points total.
Earlier this year, Lawson had a temporary recall to the senior Oracle Red Bull Racing team for three races, deputising for an injured Isack Hadjar. During this period, he scored 14 championship points, including a sixth-place finish in Spain and a seventh in the Netherlands.
Most recently, Lawson secured seventh position at the Singapore Grand Prix on October 11, 2026, further solidifying his case for a continued F1 seat. His contract with Racing Bulls is set to conclude at the end of the current season.
Despite his consistent results, Lawson’s 2027 contract remains unconfirmed by the team. However, Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz has indicated that Racing Bulls has already decided to retain Lawson for the 2027 season, alongside Arvid Lindblad.
Albers questions why Lawson’s position would be under review given his strong performances, implying that a different approach to driver evaluation is now in place compared to Marko’s era.
