There’s a potential shake-up brewing in the Formula 1 landscape. Renowned designer Adrian Newey, currently with Red Bull Racing, is set to depart the team, a source confirmed to Pit Debrief.
This comes internal conflicts and dissatisfaction at Red Bull since last year following a power struggle. The exit has ultimately come because of the saga involving Christian Horner and a female employee earlier this year.
Since joining Red Bull in 2006 following a successful period at McLaren, Newey has been a key player in their success. They have won seven Drivers’ Championships and six Constructors’ Championships, taking 117 wins and 100 poles in the last 18 year.
Recently, however, he has felt sidelined by internal power struggles and a shift in focus away from Formula 1. Despite advancements in car design technology, Newey remains deeply passionate about F1 and prefers to stay actively involved in the sport.
Newey’s contract with Red Bull is set to expire at the end of 2025, coinciding with the completion of the RB17 hypercar.
Nevertheless, it suggests he is seeking an early exit by the end of 2024, potentially opening up fresh opportunities ahead when the new regulations come into effect.
He will have to serve a period of gardening leave, however. It’s extremely doubtful he could get involved in a project with a new team ahead of 2026.
As one of the most brilliant minds in motorsport and commanding a salary comparable to top F1 drivers—ten million pounds a year—Newey is highly coveted by several leading teams.
While Aston Martin and Mercedes are interested in Newey, his potential shift to Ferrari is currently the most talked-about possibility. Mercedes has been particularly discreet, but acquiring Newey could be transformative, especially with the impending new engine regulations in 2026 that will necessitate a complete car redesign.
His expertise will be crucial as teams prepare for the major regulatory changes in 2026, a scenario where Newey has consistently excelled by leveraging his profound knowledge of new technologies and regulations.
