Adrian Newey, the mastermind behind Red Bull Racing’s Formula 1 success, is set to leave the team in early 2025. After a tenure that saw the team clinch 13 titles, his exit marks the end of an era for Red Bull. Despite recent tensions with team principal Christian Horner, Newey will focus on the RB17 hypercar project before his departure.
Between the lines
- Newey’s departure is scheduled for early 2025, before his contract’s official end.
- A strained relationship with Christian Horner is hinted to be a factor in his decision to leave.
- He will remain involved with Red Bull’s F1 and RB17 hypercar projects until his exit.
- Pierre Wache’s recent contract extension ensures technical leadership continuity for Red Bull.
Go deeper
Adrian Newey’s influence on Red Bull Racing is nothing short of legendary. Since joining the team in 2006, Newey has been a pivotal figure in transforming Red Bull into a dominant force in Formula 1. His innovative designs have contributed to seven drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles, cementing his status as one of the sport’s most brilliant minds.
However, all good things must come to an end, and after nearly two decades with the team, Newey is preparing to hand over the reins. While the exact reasons behind the weakening ties with Christian Horner remain private, it’s clear that Newey is looking to explore new horizons. This decision comes despite Newey’s reduced full-time involvement in recent seasons, as he has taken on more of a consultancy role.
The technical wizard will not be stepping away immediately, though. His immediate focus is on the RB17, Red Bull’s ambitious foray into road-going hypercars. This project is a testament to Newey’s versatile engineering prowess and is set to be a swan song of sorts for his illustrious career at Red Bull.
As for the team’s future, Red Bull seems to have preempted any potential instability caused by Newey’s departure. The recent extension of Pierre Wache’s contract as technical director ensures that the team’s technical department remains robust and ready to tackle the challenges of the current regulation set.
Adrian Newey’s next move is shrouded in mystery. With a career as decorated as his, it’s no surprise that he’s been linked with other top teams in the paddock. Yet, wherever he goes, Newey’s legacy at Red Bull Racing will remain a benchmark of engineering excellence and innovation in Formula 1. His departure may be the end of an era, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter for both Newey and the team he helped build into champions.
