Helmut Marko calls for immediate F1 rules change after landing new ambassador role

Helmut Marko has heavily criticised the new Formula 1 rules and called for immediate changes to be made.

F1’s regulations for 2026 have divided opinion amongst fans and drivers alike, with four-time world champion Max Verstappen being the most vocal by launching a series of disparaging remarks.

The Red Bull driver has even threatened to walk away from F1 at the end of the season due to his dissatisfaction with the rules and new cars.

And former Red Bull motorsport advisor Marko has become the latest figure to blast the new rules.

“It’s too complicated and the software plays too dominant a role," the 82-year-old Austrian told Kleine Zeitung.

"I don’t know if that can be rectified in a single season. Something has to be done, and driving skill must be brought back to the fore.”

Following a first technical meeting in the April break, F1 teams and governing body the FIA have committed to making changes to address concerns about the 2026 rules. 

Marko believes changes must be made “now”.

“The mood among the drivers is negative,” he added.

“Changes need to be made now, and hopefully the FIA will do everything in its power to reduce the battery’s share and focus more on the combustion engine.

“In this respect, the two cancelled races aren’t a bad thing at all.”

New F1 role for Marko

Marko will make a return to F1 this year, having taken on a new role as an ambassador for the Red Bull Ring, the home of the Austrian Grand Prix.

This year’s Austrian Grand Prix will take place on 26-28 June.

It comes after Marko stepped down from his previous role as motorsport advisor at Red Bull following the conclusion of the 2025 season.

After 20 tears with the company, Marko said: "I've been involved in motorsport for six decades now, and the past 20-plus years at Red Bull have been an extraordinary and extremely successful journey.

"It has been a wonderful time that I have been able to help shape and share with so many talented people. Everything we have built and achieved together fills me with pride.

"Narrowly missing out on the world championship this season has moved me deeply and made it clear to me that now is the right moment for me personally to end this very long, intense, and successful chapter.

"I wish the entire team continued success and am convinced that they will be fighting for both world championship titles again next year."