YEONGAM-GUN, SOUTH KOREA – OCTOBER 14: Red Bull Racing Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey wears mechanical protective goggles to shield his eyes as race winner Sebastian Vettel of Germany and Red Bull Racing spray champagne on the podium after the Korean Formula One Grand Prix at the Korea International Circuit on October 14, 2012 in Yeongam-gun, South Korea. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sebastian Vettel; Adrian Newey
For months, the British press has been fixated on the scandalous side of Horner’s sexting controversy and its impact on his wife, former Spice Girls member Geri Halliwell. Meanwhile, the Red Bull team principal has seemingly carried on with business as usual, with the saga fading into the background. However, all that changed today.
Although Newey did not directly implicate Horner’s scandal as the reason behind his departure from the World Champions, many, including Sky F1 and BBC experts, believe the sordid affair didn’t sit well with the 65-year-old Newey and ultimately led to his decision to leave.
However, as soon as the news of Newey’s departure from RBR became official today, the blame game began, with Horner being the main target. Leading the charge was Jos Verstappen, who was never a fan of Max’s boss.
Just a few hours after the news broke on this Labor Day, Verstappen Sr. told De Telegraaf: “Red Bull Racing is at risk of falling apart. I feared this earlier in the year. To maintain internal peace, key people must stay on board. Unfortunately, that is not the case now. Newey is leaving, and earlier this year, it seemed like Helmut would also be ousted. This is not a good omen for the future,” Jos insisted, expressing concerns about Verstappen Jr.’s future in the team as well.
Ralf Schumacher, speaking to Sky Germany, added his voice to the chorus of criticisms. “Adrian Newey thrives on harmony and a positive working environment. However, at the moment, it is clear that Red Bull is falling apart. The sole responsibility for this lies with Christian Horner, who is desperately clinging to power,” said Schumacher. “I don’t believe this will be the last problem he faces when Adrian Newey leaves. Max Verstappen is already considering his options, as well as Dr. Helmut Marko, if you observe his behavior.”
The team’s dependence on Newey was emphasized by Schumacher, who stated: “Last year, when there were problems and he was absent, the impact on Red Bull was evident. Max Verstappen faced difficulties.”
Six-time Grand Prix winner Schumacher expressed his belief that without Newey, Red Bull’s performance will decline. He stated: “If Horner remains with the team, I give them a few more seasons before they sink into mediocrity. I am sure of that.”
Horner, the man responsible for bringing Newey to Red Bull from McLaren twenty years ago, acknowledged the loss the team will face. He said: “Adrian’s influence has been crucial to our greatest achievements over the past two decades. His exceptional ability to think beyond F1 and draw inspiration from various sources has contributed to our 13 titles in 20 seasons. His talent for adapting to changes and identifying the most advantageous areas of the regulations has been remarkable.”
Horner added: “Adrian’s determination to win has propelled Red Bull Racing to heights that not even the late Dietrich Mateschitz could have imagined. Furthermore, the past 19 years with Adrian have been incredibly enjoyable.”
Reflecting on their partnership, Horner described Newey as a superstar designer when he joined Red Bull. He stated: “After two decades and 13 championships, he leaves as a true legend. Adrian is not just a colleague, but also a dear friend, and I am eternally grateful for his contributions to our partnership.”
Horner declared that Newey’s legacy will echo through the halls of Milton Keynes, and the RB17 track car will serve as a fitting tribute to his time with the team.
As part of the agreement for his departure, Newey will focus on the final development and delivery of the highly anticipated Red Bull RB17 hypercar. He will remain dedicated to this project until its completion.
Regarding Newey’s future plans, a recent report on our website explored several possibilities for the renowned F1 designer. These options include taking a sabbatical to sail around the world on his yacht, potentially followed by a farewell at Ferrari alongside Lewis Hamilton, or accepting a lucrative offer from Aston Martin. Few others can afford his services.
Alternatively, Newey may choose to continue sailing and embark on new journeys around the world, chasing winds on his boat.
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