Jun.25 (GMM) Former Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko has criticised Formula 1’s handling of the Monaco pitlane speeding controversy while renewing his call for the return of V8 engines.
Speaking ahead of Red Bull’s home race in Austria, Marko – to be present this weekend for the first time since retiring – said the fallout from the Monaco GP, where Pierre Gasly successfully overturned a pitlane speeding penalty after timing errors were discovered, exposed weaknesses in the sport’s governance.
“The cooperation between Liberty and the FIA needs to be closer and more coordinated,” Marko told Kleine Zeitung.
“The farce with the penalties in Monaco, for example, is a poor system.”
The FIA later acknowledged errors in the pitlane timing calculations that affected multiple drivers, although Alpine’s successful appeal restored only Gasly’s podium finish. Mercedes initially indicated it would also seek a review of George Russell’s penalty before deciding not to proceed.
Marko believes Formula 1 has become unnecessarily complicated.
“In football, the goal is always the same size, the rules are simple and clear,” he said.
“In Formula 1, it’s too complicated.”
The 83-year-old also welcomed the recent decision to rebalance the 2027-28 engine regulations while discussions continue about a future return to V8 power.
“Absolutely!” Marko said when asked about V8 engines.
“That would put racing back in its original sense at the centre, and it wouldn’t be like it is now, where you have to manage your energy in qualifying.”
“Every corner should be at or beyond the limit – that’s what makes it exciting and what makes it different.”
Marko, who retired from Red Bull at the end of 2025, also defended the Austrian GP’s importance despite acknowledging it does not make money.
“Formula 1 is running as usual, there’s no need to worry about that,” said the Austrian, who is now an ambassador for the Red Bull-promoted event.
“It’s still a loss-making business, but it brings an incredible image to the region and the entire country.”
“Only an event like this can send this kind of publicity out into the world.”
He also criticised local opposition to the Red Bull Ring.
“It’s this selfish, petty thinking that people have certain restrictions twice, or at least once, a year, but don’t see what that brings to the region,” said Marko.
“It’s all the more incomprehensible to me that some who built their houses even though the Ring was already there are now up in arms.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES