Never Ending War of Words Takes Another Turn as Helmut Marko Exposes Mercedes’ Troubles Despite Toto Wolff’s Positive Affirmations: “The Atmosphere Is Tense”

The drivers’ silly season, triggered by Alpine with the incorrect announcement of Oscar Piastri as its driver, ended with Logan Sargeant signing up for Williams. But the team principals’ silly season, which was triggered by Ferrari’s ex-boss resignation, ended with the former Mercedes chief strategy officer, James Vowles, signing up for Williams’ team principal position. And while one may expect panic at Red Bull, according to Marko Helmut, its chief advisor, things remain cool in Milton Keynes.

The appointment of James Vowles came as massive news for everyone. While Mercedes was already in the process of moving away from Vowles, the impact and the idea behind the appointment can’t be underestimated. Many believe that this change will lead to the creation of the “Mercedes B team,” which could counter the front runners on behalf of Toto Wolff and the team.

But this doesn’t seem to bother Red Bull. Marko Helmut, in a recent interview with Sport1.de, addressed the topic and said, “No, I have completely different information. Vowles went on its own initiative and – you can hear – even takes good technicians with them. My sources tell me that that’s why the mood at Mercedes is tense.”

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Marko’s words could start the war of words for this season. Now, Vowles claims the team will be free from Mercedes’s influence and dismissed the idea of a “B-team”, but there will undoubtedly be pressure or sour grapes if he removes mechanics from his former team.

Toto Wolff on Vowles’s departure

Vowles’s departure was welcomed by Toto Wolff. The team’s strategic head was a key man behind the team’s rampant run, during which it won eight consecutive championships.

The two ended their partnership on great terms, as Toto was quoted by Motorsport NextGen Auto as saying, “We wish him every success and are delighted that he is taking this next step in his career with Williams, one of our long-standing technical partners and a team that has a place in my heart.”

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If the two bosses stay close next year, they could possibly be seen lending a hand to each other if the need arises. And even if they don’t do that, they are highly unlikely to step over each other.