In a shocking turn of events in the Formula 1 world, the new Racing Bulls chief, Alan Permane, has been thrust into the spotlight as he grapples with his unexpected promotion to team boss. Expressing his astonishment at being handpicked to lead the team, Permane is adamant about maintaining the status quo without implementing drastic changes.
Following Red Bull’s decision to oust Christian Horner and appoint Laurent Mekies as the new Racing Bulls Team Principal, a vacancy emerged at the helm of the satellite squad. Rather than seeking an external candidate, Red Bull opted for the seasoned paddock veteran, Alan Permane, to take over from Mekies.
With three decades of experience at the Enstone-based squad and having served as the Racing Director at Racing Bulls since 2024, Permane is no stranger to the F1 pitlane. Despite his familiarity with the team, Permane admitted to being taken aback by the opportunity to lead Racing Bulls, stating, “I had many reactions to the news, some shock, some pride. It’s amazing that they feel I’m capable and have the potential to lead this team.”
Building on the foundation laid by Mekies and CEO Peter Bayer, Racing Bulls has established itself as a competitive points-scoring team since its rebranding last season. Looking ahead to the upcoming rule changes in 2026, Permane aims to ensure the team’s continued success and progression in the right direction.
Permane emphasized, “The plan of action is to keep things as they are. Laurent and Peter have done a fantastic job with this team… My plan is to keep that running, keep the team on the same trajectory as it’s been on.” With a target to lead the midfield pack, Racing Bulls is poised for a fierce battle in the upcoming season.
Drawing on his extensive experience in various roles within the team, Permane is confident in his ability to navigate the challenges of his new position. Highlighting the transition from Sporting Director to team boss, he stated, “There will be many things that are new, but I’m very ready to take it on and then I’m confident I’ll do a good job.”
In a strategic restructuring move, Racing Bulls will no longer have a nominated Racing Director, with Chief Race Engineer Mattia Spini taking on additional responsibilities. Permane affirmed, “At the moment we won’t fill it… Mattia will step up, and he’s an excellent chief race engineer.”
As the motorsport world buzzes with anticipation, all eyes are on Alan Permane as he steers Racing Bulls into a new era of competition and success.
