In the world of Formula 1, Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull Racing, has denied any connection between Adrian Newey’s upcoming departure from the team and the investigation that took place earlier this season. Last week, Red Bull made the announcement that Newey, the design mastermind behind their seven championship-winning cars, had expressed his intention to end his nearly twenty-year collaboration with the team. Speculations have arisen suggesting that Newey’s decision is a result of his strained relationship with Horner. Despite Horner being cleared of any wrongdoing in an internal inquiry into allegations of misconduct, rumors of tension within the Red Bull team persist. However, Horner dismisses the idea that his presence influenced Newey’s choice and believes that Newey has simply decided that now is the right time for him to embark on a new venture. When questioned about the speculation linking him to Newey’s departure, Horner stated, “If you speak with Adrian and examine the statements he has made, it becomes clear that Adrian has determined that the timing is right for him to step away after 35 years with the team, given the strength and depth of our engineering capabilities. We have established a structure that enables us to carry on and continue the legacy, a structure that has been put in place over the past five or six years.”
Horner has asserted that he and Newey maintain a positive relationship and reiterated the belief that Red Bull is in a strong position to continue its dominance with the current setup.
He added: “I have had extensive conversations with Adrian regarding this matter and his position is crystal clear.
“We have had a fantastic relationship, and it continues to be so. We are not just colleagues but also friends. Adrian has made significant contributions to this team, and we will be saddened by his departure. However, he has left the team in excellent condition, and we have a highly capable team of individuals to carry us forward.”
Horner, who disclosed that Red Bull has been preparing for this situation since 2014, acknowledges that the Austrian team has been fortunate to retain Newey’s services for a significant period.
“Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever,” Horner remarked. “Adrian spent 7 years at Williams, 7 years at McLaren, and we were fortunate to have him for 18 years.
“We have experienced remarkable moments both on and off the track. It has been an incredible journey with Adrian; he is a friend, and he is the godfather to my children. Our friendship remains intact.”
Newey was present at the Miami Grand Prix, but Horner clarified that the 65-year-old Briton will only attend select races this season and will not be involved in the race operations.
“Adrian’s focus is now primarily on RB17, and he is not participating in any briefings throughout the weekend, except for the race strategy.
“He does not have access to any data, nor is he involved in any decision-making. His attention is now fully on RB17.”
Horner added: “He will be present at some races until the end of the year, primarily when we have RB17 customers.”