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Adrian Newey, one of the most famous designers in Formula one story, will leave Red Bull next year.
Red Bull has confirmed that the 65-year-old Briton, widely regarded as the mastermind behind the team’s unprecedented dominance of the sport, is set to end his two-decade tenure in the “first quarter of 2025”.
The news is set to spark a bidding war for Newey’s services, with Ferrari – soon to be joined by Lewis Hamilton – in prime position to sign him.
Newey’s departure also puts additional pressure on Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. Horner was acquitted in February of misconduct charges against an employee who filed a complaint against the result.
Newey is understood to have been uncomfortable with his position in the squad amid the fallout from the furore that has engulfed the defending world champions.
“For almost two decades, it has been my great honor to play a key role in the progression of Red Bull Racing from a fledgling newcomer to a multi-winning team,” Newey said in a statement. “However, I think now is a good time to pass the baton on to others and look for new challenges for myself.”
The 65-year-old Newey was with Red Bull since 2006, a year after the team was formed. Since then, he has designed cars that have won seven drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships for Red Bull, as well as championships for Williams and McLaren. His loss is a serious blow to the team.
“All of our greatest moments of the last 20 years have come with Adrian’s hand on the technical lever,” Horner said. “His vision and brilliance helped us win 13 titles in 20 seasons. For me, when Adrian joined Red Bull, he was already a superstar designer. Two decades and 13 titles later, he leaves as a true legend.”
Newey’s exit will inevitably cast doubt on the future of world champion Max Verstappen. Although the Dutchman is under contract until 2028, the loss of Newey presents a strong reason for him to consider a new course.
Newey, who is expected to be in Miami for this weekend’s race, said: “Ever since I was little I wanted to be a fast car designer. My dream was to be an engineer in Formula 1 and I was lucky enough to make that dream a reality.
“For almost two decades, it has been my great honor to play a key role in the progression of Red Bull Racing from a fledgling newcomer to a multi-winning team. The final stages of development of the RB17 are upon us, so for the remainder of my time with the team, my focus will be there.”
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