Horner reveals non-existent relationship with Helmut Marko following Red Bull exit

Former Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has revealed that he has cut all ties with Helmut Marko following his sacking last summer, explaining that his relationship with the Austrian is now "non-existent".

Their last interaction took place on the Briton's final day at the team, when they spoke in his office and shook hands. There has been complete radio silence between them ever since—a situation Horner says he is entirely comfortable with.

Horner spoke candidly about the circumstances surrounding his dismissal, admitting he was deeply hurt by Marko's role in his departure. It was an exceptionally difficult period in his personal life as well, coming shortly after the passing of his former partner Beverley, the mother of his daughter. According to Horner, the Austrian did not even offer his condolences: "That wasn't particularly classy," he said.

The former team boss described years of internal power struggles, fueled by friction between the operational base in the UK and the corporate headquarters in Austria.

According to Horner, Marko's role shifted significantly following the death of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz. Previously, Marko kept Mateschitz regularly informed and helped shape the team's vision, but after his passing, he turned his focus to other areas, including the young driver development programme.

Despite the final fallout, Horner acknowledged the support Marko provided early in his career. The pair worked together for two decades, with Horner emphasising that he owed a great deal to Marko for backing him to Mateschitz when he was appointed team principal in his early thirties.

However, their relationship grew increasingly complex over time, with Mateschitz's passing marking a major turning point. The subsequent split sent them in completely different directions, with that final handshake in the office remaining their last exchange, as neither shows any desire to reconnect.