Red Bull Racing, who enjoyed a dream year with 22 race wins in 2023, simply didn’t expect the tables to turn this drastically within the frame of just one winter break. The instability that was triggered following Christian Horner’s sexual abuse case has put the team’s dominance and relevance in jeopardy.
Adrian Newey, popular known as the aero wizard, was a pivotal figure in Red Bull’s success. However, the internal politics was too much to handle for Newey as he announced his departure in May this year. As Newey is set to become a free agent, his next destination is reportedly confirmed and formal announcement is days away.
Adrian Newey To Reportedly Join Aston Martin After Red Bull Breakup
In a surprising turn of events, reports suggest that Red Bull Racing’s legendary Chief Engineer, Adrian Newey, is set to make a high-profile move to Aston Martin. Newey will become a free agent after the first quarter of the 2025 season and will be free to join any organization at his free will. The pursuit of Newey lasted longer than previously anticipated as Ferrari went above and beyond to build a dream team with Adrian and Lewis Hamilton. However, Ferrari dropped the sweepstakes when Lawrence Stroll of Aston Martin decided to enter the pursuit. John Elkaan wanted to avoid a bidding war and seemingly dropped out of the race. Now, multiple media houses have confirmed that Newey’s deal with Aston Martin is complete.
In the next few days, a formal announcement is expected to be made by both parties. Additionally, it is largely believed that Stroll offered Adrian Newey a $26 million annual salary deal with several other perks. While money definitely played a big role, certain other factors could have also influenced Newey’s decision. Firstly, by signing with Aston Martin, Newey gets to stay in the UK, which is his comfort place, rather than moving bases to Italy at the age of 65. Additionally, Lawrence Stroll’s development project intrigued Newey as the businessmen investing in the facilities and working culture. Most importantly, Adrian Newey can continue working with Honda as Aston Martin will have new engine partners from the 2026 season. Needless to say, Newey’s switch will mark one of the most significant F1 engineering transfers and could potentially alter the pecking order.
Red Bull’s Ford Partnership In Danger?
In the aftermath of Red Bull Racing’s downfall, FORD were reportedly reconsidering its impending partnership with drink based out. The duo are expected to come together to build Red Bull Powertrains for the 2026 season. However, as per reports, FORD CEO hadn’t been in touch with Christian Horner for over a year.
Amid risk of a fallout, Telegraaf reported that FORD CEO visited Red Bull hospitality room and met team principal Christian Horner. Their chat apparently lasted for an hour as the duo discussed about future plans. The meeting apparently went well and Horner potentially managed to pacify his upcoming partner. Hence, momentarily, the engine partnership will go on as per preset terms.
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