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Marko denies rumors of power struggle with Horner at Red Bull

Helmut Marko has rubbished rumors of a political power struggle currently taking place at Red Bull with team boss Christian Horner.

A report from Brazilian media GE.globo claims that tensions have set in at Red Bull between Marko and Horner, with the latter allegedly seeking to get rid of the former in a bid to widen his influence on the energy drink company’s pair of F1 teams.

Tensions have reportedly been brewing since the end of last year, after the passing of Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz and the extensive management shake-up that subsequently took place at the company.

But Marko, who is contracted to Red Bull GmbH and not to the F1 team, insists the rumors are totally unfounded.

"No idea," the 80-year-old replied when asked by Austria's OE24 where the gossip was coming from.

"There is no summit this week, I have a contract until the end of year next. When and how I stop, when it is over, I decide, and not for example, Mr Horner.”

“Through the new constellation [of management positions at Red Bull following the death of Dietrich Mateschitz] everything is different.

“People are trying to redefine the powers.”

Read also: Marko reminds Perez that there are ‘three drivers’ at AlphaTauri

Marko also rubbished reports about Sergio Perez being warned that if he fails to finish second in the championship behind Max Verstappen, he will lose his seat with Red Bull Racing for 2024.

"This is all just speculation, like also about Perez, there is no ultimatum," added Marko.

"We're winning too much - incredible things are happening and Max Verstappen's performances should be appreciated more - it is extraordinary.

"It is very reassuring that there is still something like loyalty and appreciation.

"Since our first conversation when Max was 15, there has been a special connection between us.

"Now I am looking forward to Austin where we can hopefully celebrate his 50th Grand Prix victory on Sunday."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.