Ralf Schumacher stated that Red Bull Racing will face difficulties if Christian Horner continues as the leader of the team amid rumors of Adrian Newey’s departure from Milton Keynes.
Red Bull Racing has experienced turmoil since the beginning of the 2024 season. Allegations of inappropriate conduct against the Team Principal have caused tensions within the team. Additionally, rumors of Newey leaving have resurfaced once again. Schumacher has made it clear that Milton Keynes could suffer even more under Horner’s guidance.
The former German driver emphasized the importance of providing Newey with a stable and harmonious work environment. In the past, Newey has left both Williams and McLaren due to conflicts with team leadership. Therefore, it is evident that Red Bull is falling apart, according to Schumacher.
Schumacher believes that Horner is solely responsible for the current situation. Despite recent events, the 50-year-old has attempted to solidify his power. Schumacher predicts that Newey’s departure will not be the end of Horner’s problems, as other key members of the team may also choose to leave.
Schumacher claims that if Horner continues as the Team Principal, Red Bull Racing will decline in performance within the next two years.
Red Bull has denied rumors of Newey expressing his desire to leave Milton Keynes. The aerodynamics expert has a contract with the team until at least the end of 2025. Even if Newey were to join a rival team, he may be placed on gardening leave, delaying his ability to start working until as late as early 2027.
A former strategist from Aston Martin believes that Newey’s departure in 2026 would have a significant impact on Milton Keynes. With the introduction of new regulations, a power struggle within the team without strong technical leadership could result in Red Bull’s decline in the hierarchy.
Adrian Newey has not publicly commented on his future in Formula 1 thus far. However, it is evident that he has numerous options if he decides to leave Red Bull. Newey is highly regarded in the sport and may consider a new project with a rival team if Horner’s presence continues to diminish his influence in the coming weeks.