Calum Nicholas, the seasoned senior engine technician for Red Bull, is making a significant shift in his role within the team. The British technician, who played a pivotal role in servicing Max Verstappen’s car and was a crucial part of the Red Bull pit-stop crew, is transitioning from the garage to an ambassadorial role with Red Bull Racing.
Since his association with the team in 2015, Nicholas has steadily grown into a prominent figure in F1. His book, ‘Life in the Pitlane’, slated for release on February 27, further cements his status within the sport. On the brink of his book launch, Nicholas has announced a major transition in his Red Bull affiliation, stepping into the shoes of an ambassador for the team.
Nicholas reflects on his impressive career with pride, reminiscing over 15 years of racing as a mechanic, participating in 13 Formula One seasons, 233 Grands Prix, 4 World Drivers’ Championships, 2 World Constructors’ Championships and 7 consecutive pitstop awards. He extends his gratitude towards everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey.
The last ten years have been a special time for Nicholas, working with a team of extraordinary individuals in a unique environment. Now, he is thrilled to embark on a new journey as a Red Bull Racing ambassador.
Nicholas’ contribution to Verstappen’s four straight Drivers’ title wins and Red Bull’s 2022 and 2023 Constructors’ victories has been pivotal. As Verstappen gears up for F1 2025, aiming for a fifth consecutive crown, he will be without Nicholas in his race team.
There’s considerable anticipation surrounding the RB21 as Red Bull aims to reassert their dominance in F1. The team had a tough run in F1 2024, ending up third in the Constructors’ Championship after a ten-race winless streak.
Verstappen’s response to the challenging Italian Grand Prix has been a catalyst for the team’s turnaround. The F1 75 season launch in London saw the unveiling of the 10 F1 2025 liveries, including that of the RB21. When quizzed about whether the RB21 could rectify the shortcomings of its predecessor, Verstappen stated that the team is indeed working on it and striving for continuous improvement.
He acknowledged the team’s understanding of the issues they faced and their efforts towards achieving a better balance for the car, changing a few strategies. However, he maintained that only time would reveal how much progress they have made. When asked to compare the RB21 to the RB20 based on his simulator experience, Verstappen confessed his limited time on the simulator and expressed his preference to reserve his judgement until he gets to drive the real thing.
