Marko: Audi could prevent Red Bull exit

May 12 - Audi could stop Red Bull from quitting formula one.

That is the sensational claim of the former world champion team's Austrian official Dr Helmut Marko, adding even more fuel to rumours the Volkswagen-owned German carmaker is considering entering formula one.

Indeed, even Audi chief Rupert Stadler is no longer issuing blank denials, telling Auto Express on Monday that, regarding F1, "Wait and see.

"It's an option for Audi. Not at this moment, perhaps. But it is still an option."

As far as Marko is concerned, however, the situation is urgent, as Red Bull struggles in the new 'power unit' era with its current engine partner Renault.

"If we don't have a competitive engine in the near future, then either Audi is coming or we are out," he sensationally told the BBC on Monday.

However, Marko said formal talks with Ingolstadt-based Audi have not taken place.

"Officially there was no request or talks," he insisted. "The VW Group first has to sort out who will be the new chief of support, who will run the brand of VW, and when they have sorted all these things maybe then they can think about what they are doing in motor sport.

"I was on the phone but not to the people you think," said Marko.

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