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Why Newey's words should worry Verstappen and Red Bull
- Ludo van Denderen
Adrian Newey is not known for his spectacular statements. However, with some comments he has provided a more than interesting look at the internal situation at Red Bull Racing, words that suggest Max Verstappen should be worried about his chances next season.
As for the exact reasons why Newey decided to leave Red Bull, it remains guesswork. From a lengthy interview with Auto, Motor und Sport, one reason seems to be that he no longer felt heard within the Austrian team. The Briton had, in fact, been concerned for quite some time about the direction in which Red Bull was developing the car. "But not many other people in the organisation seemed to be very concerned about it," he said.
So Newey eventually left, after which Red Bull Racing fell back further by the week. It was thanks to the exceptional qualities of Max Verstappen that there was eventually a world title to celebrate. Whether that feat can be repeated this year is highly questionable.
Although Christian Horner insisted at the time, after Newey's departure, that there were enough bright minds left to keep Red Bull at the top level, Newey seems to doubt that. He said in the interview with the German medium, analysing the past season: "From what I can see from the outside, but I don’t know, the guys at Red Bull – this is no criticism – I think they just, perhaps through lack of experience, kept going in that same direction."
'Red Bull lacks experience'
A lack of experience. If arguably the best designer in F1 history sees that the remaining Red Bull members lack what he himself possesses, it does not bode well for 2025 and beyond. After all, it is these people - so called 'inexperienced' by Newey - who are building Verstappen's new car, and are working on next year's car.
It is no secret that Max Verstappen is keeping a close eye on the situation. Thinking about his future in the sport, the Dutchman wants to be able to compete for titles, preferably at Red Bull. And a team that is too inexperienced to make good decisions does not seem to be the right place to win championships.
Newey has warned Red Bull once again. Will they listen this time?
This article was written in collaboration with Norberto Mujica.
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