### Verstappen Open to Vettel's Return to Red Bull Amid Leadership Changes Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula One champion, has expressed his support for Sebastian Vettel potentially returning to Red Bull Racing in a leadership capacity. This comes as Vettel, a four-time world champion, has confirmed ongoing discussions about succeeding Helmut Marko, the current advisor to the team, who is expected to retire soon. The prospect of Vettel's return has generated significant interest, given his successful history with Red Bull, where he won four consecutive championships from 2010 to 2013. ### Structure of the News Event 1. **Verstappen's Support for Vettel** - Verstappen stated he would welcome Vettel back at Red Bull, emphasizing that there will always be a place for him at the team [https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13388843/red-bull-max-verstappen-says-sebastian-vettel-will-always-have-a-space-available-at-former-team]. 2. **Vettel's Discussions with Red Bull** - Vettel has confirmed that he is in contact with Helmut Marko regarding a potential advisory role, indicating that he is open to returning to the team in a different capacity [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/sebastian-vettel-red-bull-possible-return-helmut-marko-formula-1-13900607.html]. 3. **Marko's Imminent Retirement** - Helmut Marko, who has been a pivotal figure in Red Bull's success, is expected to retire soon, prompting speculation about his successor [https://www.grandprix247.com/2025/06/26/who-is-markos-successor-vettel]. 4. **Vettel's Legacy at Red Bull** - Vettel's history with Red Bull is notable, having led the team to multiple championships, which adds weight to the discussions about his return [https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-autosport/2073100/Sebastian-Vettel-Red-Bull-talks-Helmut-Marko]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Vettel's Championship Titles**: - 4-time World Champion with Red Bull (2010-2013). - **Marko's Age**: - Helmut Marko is currently 82 years old, indicating that his retirement is likely imminent [https://www.grandprix247.com/2025/06/26/who-is-markos-successor-vettel]. - **Verstappen's Statements**: - Verstappen's comments reflect a positive team culture and openness to veteran leadership, which could benefit the team's future direction [https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/45590935/verstappen-theres-always-space-vettel-red-bull]. ### Conclusion and Summary of Findings In summary, **Max Verstappen's endorsement of Sebastian Vettel's potential return to Red Bull highlights a significant moment in the team's evolution as it prepares for leadership changes**. The following points encapsulate the key findings: 1. **Verstappen's Support**: Verstappen is enthusiastic about Vettel's return, indicating a welcoming environment for experienced leadership [https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13388843/red-bull-max-verstappen-says-sebastian-vettel-will-always-have-a-space-available-at-former-team]. 2. **Ongoing Discussions**: Vettel has confirmed he is in talks with Marko about a possible advisory role, showing his interest in returning to the team [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/sebastian-vettel-red-bull-possible-return-helmut-marko-formula-1-13900607.html]. 3. **Marko's Retirement**: With Marko's retirement on the horizon, the team is considering its future leadership structure [https://www.grandprix247.com/2025/06/26/who-is-markos-successor-vettel]. 4. **Vettel's Legacy**: His successful history with Red Bull adds credibility to the discussions about his return [https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-autosport/2073100/Sebastian-Vettel-Red-Bull-talks-Helmut-Marko]. This evolving narrative suggests a potential revitalization of Red Bull's leadership, with Vettel's experience possibly guiding the team into a new era.