Top F1 designer Newey seeks exit from reigning champions Red Bull Racing
Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool
Key designer Adrian Newey reportedly looking to leave Red Bull.
Adrian Newey, one of Formula One's most illustrious designers, is reportedly looking to leave the reigning champions Red Bull Racing. According to multiple media sources, including the BBC and Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, Newey is eager to depart the team by the end of this season.
Despite these reports, a Red Bull spokesperson affirmed, "Newey is contracted until at least the end of 2025, and we are unaware of him joining any other team." However, the BBC indicated that Newey, aged 65, believes he can negotiate an early exit and join a competing team as soon as the next season.
Having masterminded cars that secured 25 drivers' and constructors' championships for teams such as Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull, Newey has left an indelible mark on the sport. Attempts to reach him for immediate comment have been unsuccessful.
The potential move is fueled by allegations of misconduct involving team principal Christian Horner. Although Horner was cleared of alleged misconduct toward a female employee in February, the employee has since appealed the decision, adding layers of uncertainty to Red Bull's internal environment.
Currently, Red Bull enjoys dominance with triple world champion Max Verstappen. Yet, Newey's unmatched expertise makes him a high-priority target for other top-tier teams. Ferrari, which will welcome seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton next season, and British-based Aston Martin are both considered potential destinations for Newey. Both teams have expressed keen interest in securing his services.
Newey's reluctance to relocate outside of England — where most F1 teams are based — adds another dimension to his decision. Historically, his 2023 car was deemed the most dominant in F1's history, achieving 21 wins from 22 races.
The situation also affects Mercedes, currently struggling after years of dominance. They are eyeing Verstappen as a potential replacement for Hamilton in 2025.
Red Bull will conclude their partnership with Honda at the end of next season and will begin manufacturing their own engines with Ford's backing in the 2026 season, marking a new era for the team. During transitions like these, top technical personnel such as Newey often undergo a period of "gardening leave," a hiatus period to prevent immediate transfers to competitors.
The internal dynamics at Red Bull have faced scrutiny, especially with ongoing issues between Horner and Jos Verstappen, father of Max, as well as Red Bull motorsport consultant Helmut Marko. Marko's close ties to the Verstappens also put Red Bull in a precarious position, with Max potentially linking his future to the Austrian consultant.
Newey's possible departure, if confirmed, would significantly impact Red Bull's architectural prowess. However, the team is not devoid of talent. Technical Director Pierre Wache has grown increasingly influential and is highly regarded within the paddock. Ferrari, ever vigilant, is also keen to secure his services.
As the Formula One community waits for further developments, one point remains clear: Adrian Newey's decisions will have a substantial impact on the sport's immediate future.
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