Red Bull in search of an alternative to Ricciardo for 2019

Dr. Helmut Marko, who leads the Red Bull junior team and provides advice to the two teams owned by the energy drink brand, spoke on various subjects with Auto Motor und Sport.

To begin, the Austrian mentions the future of Daniel Ricciardo, who only has a contract until next season, which could force Red Bull to find an alternative for the 2019 season: “We have to look for alternatives. We will not be caught off guard. But Ricciardo is already on the market.”

In the case of Max Verstappen, the question arises less since the Dutch driver has a longer-term contract: « Verstappen has a longer contract. » clarifies Marko.

One thing is certain: the parent Red Bull team will aim for stability next year with a driver duo still consisting of the Australian and the Dutchman.

The conversation then shifts to Carlos Sainz and particularly his potential replacement for next year, Pierre Gasly, who already raced in his first Grand Prix this weekend in Malaysia. Let’s remember that although the Spaniard is joining Renault next season, it is only a loan that allows Red Bull to recall Sainz for 2019 if one of their two drivers leaves.

Regarding Pierre Gasly’s first race, Marko expressed satisfaction with the Frenchman’s first Grand Prix: « This first weekend, he was only a tenth and a half off Sainz. And even during the race, when he was running alone, the lap times were at Sainz’s level. »

When asked if Gasly will be present in Austin and if he will drive until the end of the season, the Austrian states: « Red Bull will tell you in Suzuka. »

Then, Helmut Marko optimistically discusses Red Bull’s 2018 season, despite a 2017 season start well below the expectations anticipated due to new regulations more focused on aerodynamics, a theoretical strength of the team.

As for the problem encountered by the Austrian team this season, namely a discrepancy between wind tunnel data and on-track correlation, he assures that lessons have been learned: We are making sure that this does not happen again. There is a new procedure in the wind tunnel and we have not even finished developing this car.

To conclude, it’s the topic of the future engine supply for the Red Bull teams that comes up at the end of the interview. Indeed, while Toro Rosso announced during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend that they will be powered by Honda next season, much of the paddock expects Red Bull to do the same for 2019.

The close associate of Dietrich Mateschitz does not regret this decision and even believes that McLaren’s recent significant improvement in results already confirms that it is a good solution: « And when you see how McLaren is finishing the season by making progress, it strengthens us in the decision we made, at least with Toro Rosso. »

Marko even adds when asked if he has any concerns about the consequences of this new engine, he simply replies: « Not at all. We are entirely focused on the current car and on 2018, » he concludes.