Red Bull supremo set to QUIT F1 team over Christian Horner sexting scandal in huge blow with rivals ready to pounce
RED BULL design chief Adrian Newey is set to leave the team following the controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner.
The BBC have reported that Newey has informed Red Bull that he wants to move on after almost 20 years with the team.
Newey, 65, is said to be “unsettled” by the situation at Red Bull in the wake of Horner’s sexting scandal.
And it is reported that his decision to call an end to his time with Red Bull can be traced back to the situation involving Horner.
Red Bull cleared Horner of any wrongdoing after an internal investigation into alleged sexual harassment and coercive and abusive behaviour by a female employee.
The unnamed complainant has since been suspended by the team and has launched an appeal against the decision.
Newey’s seemingly forthcoming exit will reignite rumours around a switch to another major F1 team.
The Brit, who has won 12 World Constructors’ titles, has been linked with a move to Ferrari and is understood to have previously received an offer from Aston Martin.
Newey is under contract with Red Bull until 2025 but the BBC claim that he believes he can negotiate a deal that would see him work for another team from next season.
It would be a huge blow for Red Bull to lose Newey who is regarded as one of the best designers in the history of F1.
While many consider the former McLaren designer as the brains behind the dominance and success that Red Bull have experienced over recent years.
Red Bull have seen an internal power battle crop up following Horner‘s controversy.
There has been widespread concern over the future of Max Verstappen who is also said to be unnerved by the situation.
Speaking at the Chinese Grand Prix last weekend Verstappen discussed his desire to keep the chiefs at Red Bull in place and keep a “peaceful environment”.
The star, who is contracted until 2028, said: “I signed a long deal with team.
“The only thing I said from the beginning is we want to have a peaceful environment, lately we have been talking about the car.
“I am happy about that, I am happy with the team and there has never been a reason to leave.”
Who is Adrian Newey?
Adrian Newey is the current design chief at Red Bull Racing.
The 65-year-old has played a crucial role in designing the cars that have helped Sebastian Vettel and Max Vertappen win SEVEN drivers’ world championships.
Newey began designing in Formula One back in 1988 with March, where his cars were far more competitive than expected.
After March he spent time with Williams and McLaren before joining Red Bull in 2005.
Throughout his career he has contributed to the cars that have secured 12 World Constructors’ titles and 13 World Drivers’ championships.
He is widely considered to be the greatest designer in the history of F1.