F1 Rumour: Red Bull Consultant Comes Under Scrutiny As Cost Cap Looms

Red Bull is once again coming under scrutiny as cost cap rumours litter headlines.

The Summer break is drawing near, and along with it comes another wave of whispers hinting at potential team investigations concerning compliance with the 2022 budget cap. Already, seven teams have informally secured clearance from the FIA, confirming their financial status to be in order. This, however, has stirred the guessing amongst insiders, who have named three teams at risk.

Reportedly, the British press singles out three teams suspected of exceeding the budget cap: Aston Martin, Alpine, and Mercedes. Yet, according to the German media, it's not Mercedes, but Red Bull that finds itself once again under the FIA's scrutiny over potential budget cap transgressions. 

The French sports publication, L'Equipe, on the other hand, delved deeper into the subject. Contrary to what was previously reported, the French outlet suggests Alpine is not among those facing potential probes. Instead, the triad likely to come under the microscope comprises of Aston Martin, Mercedes, and Red Bull, with Aston Martin being allegedly the most exposed of the three.

The situation around Red Bull seems particularly intriguing, as reported by L'Equipe. According to its writers, Red Bull's rivals are requesting the FIA to look into the actual role of Helmut Marko within the company's hierarchy.

"Marko is present at all the races inside the Red Bull box, yet he is not among the three top managers whose compensation is not included in the $136 million", writes L'Equipe. 

Marko had relinquished his official role as manager of Red Bull's youth program last season, passing the reins to Guillaume Rocquelin. However, Marko has affirmed his contractual agreement with Red Bull, valid until 2024, which he fully intends to honour. Because of this, his salary should be included under the cost cap. But, is it?