Ralf Schumacher Criticizes Marko and Red Bull: “Mateschitz Would Be Turning in His Grave”

Ralf Schumacher Blasts Red Bull as a “Headless Gang”

Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has not held back in his latest criticism of Red Bull, calling the team a “headless gang” in response to their handling of Liam Lawson and the ongoing turmoil within the organization. Ralf Schumacher went as far as to say that if Red Bull’s late founder, Dietrich Mateschitz, were alive today, he would be “turning in his grave” over the current state of the team.

The controversy erupted after Red Bull announced on Thursday that Liam Lawson would be sent back to Racing Bulls just two races into the season, with Yuki Tsunoda reclaiming the seat. This decision came despite Lawson having signed a two-year contract last year and having been initially chosen to replace Sergio Perez, who was reportedly paid to sit out the 2025 season.

Adding to the instability, Adrian Newey’s departure as Chief Technical Officer, Jonathan Wheatley’s exit as Sporting Director, and strategy chief Will Courtenay’s move to McLaren have left Red Bull facing a significant internal shake-up.

Beyond personnel changes, Red Bull is also grappling with uncertainty surrounding its 2026 power unit project, as it prepares to develop an in-house engine for the first time.

In light of these developments, Ralf Schumacher did not hold back, launching a scathing attack on Red Bull’s management and decision-making.

“All They’re Doing Now Is Crisis Management”

Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Ralf Schumacher painted a grim picture of Red Bull’s current situation.

“Right now, they’re nothing more than a headless gang. There’s almost no other way to put it,” Ralf Schumacher stated bluntly.

“At this point, the only thing left to do is put out fires. A driver is being removed, another one is taking his place—it’s all just crisis management.”

According to Ralf Schumacher, Red Bull’s management appears to be in a constant state of panic, particularly over the future of Max Verstappen.

“On one hand, they’re thinking, ‘Can we keep the car fast enough for Max Verstappen? Or, oh no, is Max going to leave us?’”

“Considering where Red Bull came from and what it has become, Dietrich Mateschitz would be turning in his grave if he saw this mess.”

Ralf Schumacher Points Finger at Helmut Marko

Ralf Schumacher also singled out Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s long-time driver advisor, for his cutthroat management style, which he believes has done more harm than good.

“Dr. Marko plays an unfortunate role in all of this. He wants to encourage drivers, but at the same time, he demands too much too soon. He doesn’t give them enough time to develop.”

Marko’s reputation for being ruthless with young drivers is nothing new, but Ralf Schumacher argues that this latest handling of Liam Lawson is a perfect example of Red Bull’s flawed approach.

“Two races alongside Max Verstappen is not enough. The car is incredibly difficult to drive, and you’re not doing these young drivers any favors by throwing them into the deep end and expecting instant results.”

Red Bull’s Future in Question

The turmoil within Red Bull has sparked speculation about its long-term future, particularly as the team navigates major transitions.

With 2026’s regulation changes looming, the pressure is on Red Bull to prove that it can sustain its dominance without relying on Honda’s engines. The team’s decision to build its own power unit could either cement its status as an independent powerhouse or leave it vulnerable if the project fails.

At the same time, there are growing concerns over Verstappen’s future. The Dutch driver remains under contract, but if internal instability continues, there are whispers that he could seek a move elsewhere.

Ralf Schumacher believes that unless Red Bull restructures its leadership and stops making reactionary decisions, the team risks undoing everything it has built over the last two decades.

“They’ve lost key figures, they’re making rash decisions, and there’s no clear direction,” Ralf Schumacher summarized. “If they don’t sort this out soon, they could find themselves in real trouble.”

Will Red Bull Regain Control?

With Newey, Wheatley, and Courtenay gone, Lawson sidelined, and uncertainty over their 2026 engine project, Red Bull is facing one of the most challenging periods in its history.

While Max Verstappen’s presence still makes them a dominant force, Ralf Schumacher’s warnings should not be taken lightly. If Red Bull fails to stabilize itself internally, the cracks could widen—and in Formula 1, dominance can disappear as quickly as it arrives.

For now, all eyes are on Christian Horner, Helmut Marko, and the Red Bull hierarchy to see whether they can regain control—or if Schumacher’s grim prediction will become reality.