The 2024 season has been turbulent for Red Bull, with a campaign that began with dominant performances now unraveling into a series of setbacks. While the team faces challenges on the track, the off-track issues raise even more alarm. Internal tensions within Red Bull Racing’s management have caused significant disruption, with rumors swirling that some members are actively seeking opportunities elsewhere.
One notable departure is Jonathan Wheatley, Red Bull’s sporting director, who Audi, a new entrant in F1, has lured away. Wheatley is set to leave Red Bull in 2025 to take on the role of team principal at Audi, though the details regarding his gardening leave remain unclear. His exit will leave a significant gap in Red Bull’s leadership. Following the steps of RBR Sporting Director, race strategist Will Courtenay also decided to change paths. McLaren recently poached him for the role of Sporting Director. However, the team reportedly plans to fill the role internally without bringing in external hires.
Red Bull To Re-Shuffle Responsibilities After Race Strategst’s Exit
Audi’s announcement of Jonathan Wheatley as their future team principal sent shockwaves through Red Bull Racing’s leadership. The team was already in a precarious position due to an internal power struggle, and the departure of renowned car designer Adrian Newey in May only deepened the crisis. Wheatley’s exit added further complications, forcing Red Bull to rethink its team structure. Another shocking departure further aggravated the woes, with Will Courtenay sidestepping as race strategist. Instead of seeking an external replacement, the reigning Constructors’ Champions opted for an internal restructuring, given Wheatley’s and Courtenay’s invaluable experience. The two have successfully steered the team through numerous challenges, making it difficult to replace them. Additionally, there have been accusations from both Newey and Jos Verstappen that Red Bull has mishandled its senior staff. This new strategy appears aimed at rewarding and retaining the loyalty of key team members.
In the latest announcement, Gianpiero Lambiase will continue his role as Max Verstappen’s race engineer while expanding his responsibilities as the new head of racing. Lambiase, who has served as a race engineer since 2015, has the chance to further cement his position at Red Bull. In this new role, he will oversee race operations, manage team building, and coordinate with strategy and sporting regulation teams. Steve Knowles, a senior race strategy engineer, will take on the role of Sporting Head, reporting all regulatory matters to Lambiase. Additionally, senior race engineer Rich Wolverson will serve as the operational head of the race team under Lambiase’s leadership. Meanwhile, chief mechanic Phil Turner will transition into his new role as the factory operations manager.
Christian Horner Expresses Confidence In Gianpiero Lambiase As He Prepares For New Role
Christian Horner lauded Gianpiero Lambiase as he stepped into his new role, emphasizing that Lambiase is a true racer and has been an integral part of the team. Horner believes that his fellow countryman is ideally suited for this position, and his extensive experience within the squad is expected to be a great asset. Furthermore, Horner reassured that Lambiase would remain focused on his duties as Verstappen’s race engineer and that the added responsibilities would only enhance his performance.
