Aston Martin’s announcement of Adrian Newey before he completes his duties at Red Bull has triggered a reaction from the team principal Christian Horner. However, Red Bull seems to be taking a more drastic measure in response.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, had the opportunity to express his reaction to Adrian Newey’s move to Aston Martin at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Lawrence Stroll officially announced Newey on Tuesday during a press conference. Horner participated in the FIA press conference on Friday, and inevitably, journalists present wanted to hear his thoughts on Newey’s decision, given their long-standing collaboration. The legendary designer had informed Red Bull in April of his plan to leave in the coming months.
While Stroll described Newey as the most exciting signing in Aston Martin’s history, Horner acknowledged that it was a “big moment” for the team but also thought that they were “celebrating a bit early.” Newey will remain a Red Bull employee for now instead of taking a break and will officially join Aston Martin only in March.
Horner was reminded that Ferrari did not hold a grand ceremony when announcing Lewis Hamilton to Mercedes out of respect. However, Stroll was eager to showcase this significant figure in the media. Horner’s comments seem to indicate broader discontent within Red Bull. According to Autosport journalist Alex Kalinauckas, Red Bull will now prevent Newey from participating in other races this year.
The 65-year-old Newey has not been seen at a grand prix since the race he organized at Silverstone in July. He later unveiled the RB17 Hypercar at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Red Bull’s plan was for Newey to attend races at key marketing points for the project, but this plan has now been canceled. Newey had already lost access to data due to the possibility of joining a rival team, so it is even possible he will wear Red Bull clothing for the last time. Kalinauckas noted, “As a result of all this, it seems Red Bull is quite unhappy even away from the media.” Newey has now been removed from the travel list, meaning he will not be seen at any races towards the end of the year.
Could Aston Martin hinder Red Bull’s attempt to replace Max Verstappen?
Aston Martin is now interested in Max Verstappen, which could lead to further tension between the two teams. Verstappen might potentially be a long-term replacement for Fernando Alonso.
While Helmut Marko has denied the rumors, Verstappen’s camp prioritizes Mercedes. Horner was already uncomfortable with Toto Wolff’s public pursuit of the Dutch driver, and Stroll could provoke a reaction from Horner.
Aston Martin is becoming an attractive option, and even if Verstappen joins Mercedes, they could still pose a problem for Red Bull. Jolyon Palmer, Lando Norris, or George Russell might be in a strong position to attract a driver from Red Bull. The Newey move has the potential to shift the power dynamics in F1, especially in the driver market.
