Schumacher anticipates a decline into average performance within two years if changes are not implemented at the top.
Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher envisions a gloomy outlook for Red Bull Racing if they retain Christian Horner as team principal.
Schumacher predicts a downward spiral into mediocrity within two years if alterations are not made at the helm.
Referring to the imminent departure of design chief Adrian Newey, Schumacher emphasized Newey’s requirement for a positive work environment, suggesting that under Horner’s leadership, such conditions are lacking.
He stated to Sky Germany, “Adrian Newey needs harmony, he needs a good atmosphere, a good workplace,” pointing to Horner as the cause of the team’s current disarray.
Schumacher’s sentiments mirror public discontent within the Red Bull camp. Jos Verstappen, father of Red Bull’s star driver Max Verstappen, has openly called for Horner’s resignation, while Adrian Newey’s reported departure further signifies internal unrest.
Schumacher predicts that Newey’s departure may just be the start of Red Bull’s troubles under Horner’s leadership.
The departure of Newey, known for his engineering expertise, could prove detrimental to Red Bull’s competitiveness, particularly with upcoming design regulations for the 2026 season.
However, the potential loss of Max Verstappen, who has dominated the circuit for three consecutive years, could be even more harmful.
Verstappen’s contract runs until 2028, but speculation arises regarding a clause allowing him to leave linked to the departure of Dr. Helmut Marko, his mentor and Red Bull’s motorsports advisor.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed interest in recruiting Verstappen, potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
Verstappen’s possible departure represents another consequence of the turmoil surrounding Horner’s leadership, as predicted by Schumacher.
He emphasizes the need for Horner to prioritize the team’s interests over personal power, urging him to resign promptly to mitigate further damage to Red Bull’s reputation and performance.
Schumacher’s warnings serve as a clear reminder of the precarious position Red Bull Racing finds itself in, with internal strife threatening its future success on the Formula 1 circuit.