Wonder Boy Max Verstappen Reflects on Taskmaster Helmut Marko’s Vulnerable Moment During “A Very Emotional Weekend”

Dietrich Mateschitz’s death was a huge loss for the entire Red Bull team. The team went into a huddle as the news of the team owner’s passing broke ahead of the US GP. That was also the weekend when the Milton-Keynes-based team won the constructors’ championship. The emotions were so high at the time that even a man like Helmut Marko couldn’t hide his sorrow, Max Verstappen reveals.

Mateschitz is revered in Formula 1 not just by Red Bull, but by all teams alike. Almost every driver that has driven for Red Bull, including Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo, recognizes the impact Dietrich had in making their careers. That shows how the Austrian wasn’t just a team owner, but an avid motorsports fan.

Max Verstappen reveals how Helmut Marko dealt with Dietrich Mateschitz’s loss

The entire Red Bull team was called in an hour before the qualifying in Austin to tell them about Dietrich Mateschitz’s passing. Max Verstappen, who finished P3 in qualifying, vowed to win the race in Dietrich’s honor. The Dutchman did not just win the race on Sunday but also helped his team lift the constructors’ trophy.

He has now revealed how team adviser Helmut Marko, who has known Mateschitz for forty years, could not hold his emotions that weekend.

Talking on ViaPlay’s documentary Picture Perfect, Verstappen said, “It was a very emotional weekend in Austin with Dietrich’s death and I also saw from Marko that he was having a hard time with that.” [Translated using Google]

“Besides, he has done everything for this team. Helmut also wore sunglasses that weekend, which he normally never does. I said before the race that I would win for Dietrich.”

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Red Bull has won both championships for the first time since the 2013 season. The team would have wanted Mateschitz to see them achieve the feat.

Daniel Ricciardo’s heartfelt message for Dietrich’s family

Daniel Ricciardo won 7 of his 8 races during his time with Red Bull. Those were surely his best years in Formula 1. The Honey Badger, like other Red Bull drivers, recognizes the contribution Mateschitz played in his career.

Speaking during his post-qualifying interview in Austin, Ricciardo said, “Just hasn’t been the best last hour and just want to pass my condolences to his family and all the Red Bull family. [He] Played an integral part in my career. Very instrumental into just getting me where I am ultimately. So, really sad to hear that news.”

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We are sure Dietrich must be proud of what Max and Red Bull have achieved this season.