SHOCKWAVES AT RED BULL: ADMINISTRATIVE EXODUS AHEAD OF F1 2026 SEASON!
In a stunning turn of events, the Red Bull Racing team is undergoing a massive administrative shake-up as it gears up for the highly anticipated F1 2026 season. A wave of departures has hit the Milton Keynes-based powerhouse, with four senior administrative officials abruptly parting ways with the organization. This upheaval follows a period of significant staff changes, including the firing of two high-profile directors and former team boss Christian Horner just months ago.
Sources reveal that these strategic exits, occurring just after reassurances were given to employees during a company address, are part of a broader strategy to recalibrate the team’s management structure. The recent departures come on the heels of the dismissals of Oliver Hughes, the former group chief marketing and commercial officer, and Paul Smith, the ex-group communications director. Both were closely tied to Horner and let go following the British Grand Prix, signaling a seismic shift in the team’s leadership.
Among the seasoned professionals who have left are Joanna Fleet, the Human Resources director who had been a staple of the team since 2013, and Julia George, who directed partnerships since 2022. Also exiting are Simon Smith-Wright, who held the title of group marketing director since December 2024, and Alice Hedworth, a senior communications manager known for her high-profile role as Sergio Perez’s press officer. Hedworth’s departure marks a significant loss for the team, as she had garnered a loyal fanbase during her tenure.
The shake-up is widely perceived as a move to streamline operations and align with the new management vision under Laurent Mekies and Oliver Mintzlaff. The recent changes come in the wake of the resignation of long-time board director and advisor Helmut Marko, who stepped down in December 2025, reportedly to avoid being pushed out. This series of departures paints a picture of a team in flux, ready to shed its past and forge a new path forward.
When approached, a Red Bull spokesperson confirmed the exits but refrained from providing further comments, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about the implications of this administrative upheaval. As the F1 community watches closely, the question on everyone’s lips remains: what does this mean for Red Bull Racing’s future as it prepares for a new era in Formula 1?
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story, as the ramifications of these departures could reshape the landscape of the sport. Don’t miss out on the latest news—join our broadcast channel for exclusive insights and subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth features from the heart of Formula 1!








