While some ponder Sebastian Vettel's possible return as an F1 driver, Helmut Marko believes the four-time world champion would be the ideal candidate to oversee Red Bull's racing operations.

Even as he was hanging up his helmet for the final time in Abu Dhabi there was widespread speculation over whether Sebastian Vettel might one day make a return to the grid.

While the German joked about a one-off return at Suzuka or replacing Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes should he opt to retire sometime soon, he will be only too aware that comebacks rarely succeed.

Of course, Alain Prost returned and secured a final title as did Niki Lauda, but not so Vettel's all-time hero, Michael Schumacher.

While Vettel turned 35 in the summer, Red Bull's 'motorsport consultant' Helmut Marko is 80 in April, and the Austrian believes the four-time champion could make the perfect replacement.

"It's not out of the question he will come back in a top management position, Marko told Sky. "I'll be 80 soon, that would be something.

"We had a discussion," he revealed, "and I think if he could get a top management position, that might appeal to him. That's what emerged in the talk.

"For now we'll let him plant some trees and then we'll see what happens," he added. "He would certainly have the potential and he would have that personality for it.

"We have heard the message. We have two teams. We are open. But Sebastian, it's a serious difference as top management you have to be there earlier, leave later and you only get a fraction of the money you are used to as a driver."

Following the death of Dietrich Mateschitz, his son named the three men who will now manage the Red Bull empire, with Oliver Mintzlaff appointed CEO for projects and investments a role which includes overseeing the company's F1 operations.

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READERS COMMENTS

1. Posted by Max Noble, 30/11/2022 11:33

"Brilliant counter-counter double-bluff move! Love it! Dang Marko is one of a kind! Let’s see what happens! So much off track action this year! Nearly forgot the cars raced at all! Max who? ;-)"

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2. Posted by Anthony, 30/11/2022 11:11

"Surely the good doctor is irreplaceable!"

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3. Posted by kenji, 30/11/2022 1:05

"Vettel would become the RB world face for 'sustainability' with cars made out of recycled RB beverage cans and running on de acoholised grape juice, but the 60's Glastonbury inspired, matted unkempt hair complete with 'alice band' and scruffy beard would need a tidy up to match the 21st century eco warrior look. Any potential new drivers would not only need to have the required race results notched onto their safety harness but also the final choice would largely depend on how many vegetarian protests and subsequent arrests the new applicant has acquired. Rainbow tattoos would obviously be 'de rigeur' as well......exciting times on the new 'on the knee' format."

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4. Posted by Tardis40, 29/11/2022 19:14

"What is there to suggest that he has management credentials?"

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5. Posted by Spindoctor, 29/11/2022 13:21

"I'd love to see the fireworks at RBR should that move come to pass. I rather doubt that Verstappens fils or perre would have quite the same freedom to dictate how the team works & who's "in" & who's "out". "

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Marko suggests that Vettel could replace him

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