Adrian Newey expressed gratitude towards Eddie Jordan, whom he referred to as his “close friend and manager,” while announcing his departure from Red Bull.
Eddie Jordan was asked about how he potentially helped Adrian Newey negotiate his exit from Red Bull, with the news having been confirmed on Wednesday.
In the press release issued by Red Bull to announce Newey’s departure, he expressed gratitude towards his “close friend and manager” Jordan, along with other crucial members of the Red Bull team. The chief technology officer is scheduled to leave in the initial months of 2025.
Eddie Jordan asked about role in Adrian Newey departure from Red Bull
Despite rumors circulating for several days about a potential departure from Red Bull, the official announcement still managed to surprise many. The news of Newey’s impending exit is particularly significant, considering the fact that he has dedicated 19 years to his current position.
After relinquishing his Formula 1 design responsibilities, Jordan has focused on the finalization of Red Bull’s RB17 hypercar project until his departure from the team. Acknowledging his role as Newey’s personal representative, Jordan confessed to working diligently and striving for excellence in recent times, having to put on his work boots and sharpen his pencil.
During a recent episode of the Formula For Success podcast, co-host David Coulthard inquired about Newey seeking Jordan’s advice in his discussions with Red Bull. Although Jordan did not disclose any details on that matter, he did shed light on the closeness of their relationship.
He mentioned that he had known him for a long time and had attempted to recruit him. He recalled visiting his house and leaving a check for $500,000, hoping it would persuade him to join Jordan as a designer. However, he ended up choosing McLaren instead.
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When I reflect on the period I have known him, which spans from his time at Leyton House in the late 80s and 90s, it becomes evident that it has been an incredibly long time, around 30 years. Throughout all these years, I have never come across anyone who has spoken ill of him. This speaks volumes about his exceptional character and reputation.
“He is often described as brilliant when he wields a pencil, yet he transforms into an ordinary, reserved, and unassuming individual when the pencil is absent. I believe this truly encapsulates his essence.”
Regardless of his choice, we sincerely hope for his success. In this instance, I am choosing to remain neutral and will refrain from sharing my likely advice. However, it is worth mentioning that we communicate frequently.
We cycle a tremendous amount. During the middle of our Christmas season here in Europe, which coincides with summertime in Cape Town, I encounter him practically every day for a duration of two to three months.
“We’re like next-door neighbors, in a sense, with certain knowledge about each other. However, rest assured, I won’t spill a single word – my lips are sealed!”
The amicable terms of Newey’s departure means after his first-quarter departure in 2025, he will be able to join another Formula 1 team if he chooses to remain on the grid in future – with Ferrari and Aston Martin both linked with his signature.
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