Dr. Helmut Marko has chosen to remain silent, providing a firm "no comment" in response to the ongoing intense speculation about internal conflicts within Red Bull.
The controversy involving Christian Horner appeared to simmer down following the Saudi Arabian GP, yet behind-the-scenes discussions continue to buzz.
Auto Bild has suggested that Horner, aligned with the energy drink's Thai group, seems to be prevailing in the internal power tussle, which could lead to significant outcomes.
Rumors indicate that the Austrian faction, which includes consultant Marko, might consider exiting Formula 1 altogether, potentially also ending the sport's Austrian GP at the Red Bull Ring post-2030.
Speculation also hints that Suzuka could mark the end of Marko's tenure in his current capacity, possibly influencing Max Verstappen to switch to Mercedes and Adrian Newey to accept a lucrative offer from Aston Martin.
"No comment!" was Marko's succinct reply when probed by the Osterreich newspaper.
Amidst these discussions, it's believed that Horner's primary strategy, should Verstappen exit, involves Fernando Alonso, who acknowledged the flurry of "rumours" circulating.
"Obviously if Max leaves Red Bull, this may influence my decision," Alonso remarked at Suzuka, adding, "But I think the probability of this is zero."
Sebastian Vettel, a former Red Bull champion, shared his thoughts on the ongoing unrest within the team with Sky Deutschland.
"I think it's always difficult when you read one thing and then the other - and then the opposite again," he observed, noting the cyclic nature of the news. "The shame is that Max is actually doing a great job, and the team - including many individuals I recall from my tenure - are performing excellently behind the scenes."
"That's kind of forgotten when the main topic is about something else."