Max Verstappen Calls for Red Bull to Move on from Adrian Newey Era with New RB21 Car for F1 2025
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Max Verstappen Calls for Red Bull to Move on from Adrian Newey Era with New RB21 Car
Max Verstappen has urged Red Bull to move on from the Adrian Newey era as the team debuts their new RB21 car for the F1 2025 season. The unveiling of the RB21 marks the first car produced by Red Bull without Newey's involvement in almost two decades, signaling a new chapter for the team. Despite the changes, Verstappen emphasized that the team must focus on the future, not dwell on the past.
Adrian Newey’s Departure and the RB21 Launch
Red Bull’s long-time technical guru, Adrian Newey, announced his departure from the team in May 2024, transitioning to a newly created role as managing technical partner at rival team Aston Martin. Newey's exit came after a season of fluctuating performance for Red Bull, who won only five of the last 19 races of the 2024 campaign, falling behind McLaren and Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship standings.
Max Verstappen, however, managed to secure his fourth consecutive World Championship title in 2024 despite the team's mid-season struggles. But with Newey's absence, Red Bull is now entering a new era with the introduction of the RB21. The car, unveiled for the first time this season, appears strikingly similar to its predecessor, the RB20, which raised questions about the team's development direction.
Verstappen Focused on Team Effort, Not Newey’s Departure
Max Verstappen, speaking after his first laps in the RB21 during pre-season testing in Bahrain, emphasized that Red Bull must focus on moving forward and not linger on the past. “I don’t think we should think about that too much. It is done. He is not there anymore,” Verstappen commented on Newey’s exit. “That’s how it’s been last year, and I trust the people who are there at the moment. We have to do it all together,” he added, reinforcing his belief in the new technical regime at Red Bull under Technical Director Pierre Waché.
Verstappen, who has worked closely with Newey throughout his Red Bull career, expressed respect for the legendary designer’s contributions to the team. “I have a lot of respect for what Adrian has done for the team, have a great relationship with him, and I am excited for him to start a new project,” Verstappen said. The focus for Verstappen now is on the team’s future and their efforts to compete at the highest level in F1 2025.
Red Bull’s Performance and Targets for 2025 Season
While Verstappen is enthusiastic about the new season, he revealed that he has not yet set firm targets for the 2025 F1 season. With the RB21 car’s performance still uncertain, Verstappen explained that Red Bull’s immediate goal is to assess their pace during pre-season testing. “It’s really nice to be back driving again and to get into the RB21 for the first time. I got a few laps in, but the shakedown was more about getting comfortable in the car,” he said, highlighting the importance of understanding the car’s limitations and potential.
As Red Bull continues testing in Bahrain, Verstappen emphasized the need to accumulate as much mileage as possible. “We know what last year’s limitations were, so it is important that we assess the pace over the next few days and see if we have improved,” he explained. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Red Bull’s competitive standing, Verstappen expressed excitement for the season ahead, particularly looking forward to racing at his favorite tracks in Spa and Zandvoort.
What’s Next for Red Bull F1 in 2025
With the 2025 season just around the corner, Red Bull will continue to develop the RB21, working to ensure the car is ready for the season opener in Australia on March 16. Verstappen’s experience and leadership will be key in helping the team navigate the post-Newey era. As the technical leadership transitions under Waché’s guidance, Red Bull’s ability to adapt and innovate will be critical to their success in the new season.
As Red Bull shifts focus from the past to the future, the team’s performance in the upcoming pre-season testing and early races will be crucial in determining where they stand in the F1 pecking order for 2025. Verstappen’s ability to lead the team with confidence, paired with the trust in Red Bull’s new technical leadership, will play a significant role in the team’s success in the new season.
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