Adrian Newey’s departure has been confirmed by Red Bull.
Former McLaren mechanic Marc Priestley said he “happens to know” that various Red Bull figures are giving serious thought to leaving the team in the wake of Adrian Newey’s shock exit.
Newey’s departure from Red Bull will be official in the first quarter of 2025, marking the end of his involvement with the Formula 1 team. This leaves Red Bull vulnerable to the possibility of additional staff following the renowned F1 designer and leaving the team.
‘Not about championships anymore’ for alleged Red Bull wantaways
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has shared his perspective on the matter, foreseeing Newey as the “first domino to fall.” Priestley, based on his information, now echoes similar sentiments as Red Bull strives to retain their crucial team members following the off-track turmoil that plagued the team earlier this year.
Red Bull’s long-term sporting director Jonathan Wheatley has been the subject of exit speculation since the Newey bombshell and PlanetF1.com understands that he is in the process of negotiating a renewal with Red Bull, though has held off on re-signing in hope of landing a more senior role elsewhere on the F1 grid.
Other senior staff such as aero chief Enrico Balbo, head of performance engineering Ben Waterhouse and technical director Pierre Waché have all signed new deals in recent months, though according to Priestley, “a number of people” at Red Bull are actively exploring options to leave the team.
“There are a number of people at the team that I happen to know are talking and thinking about leaving, that are very unhappy,” said Priestley in a video for his YouTube page.
“Adrian’s fall from grace marks the beginning of high-profile card casualties, with several others on the brink of following suit.”
Jonathan Wheatley, the enduring sporting director who has dedicated a significant portion of his career to the team, appears to be contemplating a possible departure. However, it is worth noting that he is not the sole individual seriously contemplating an exit from the team.
The focus has shifted away from solely winning races and championships. It is highly likely that Red Bull will secure the championship this year, as they are likely to win more races. Furthermore, they are expected to continue their success in the following year.
However, the majority of these individuals have accumulated numerous accolades, countless achievements in terms of victories, points scored, and pole positions. They have surpassed all these milestones.
“If individuals find themselves dissatisfied with their work environment, especially at Red Bull, it would not be unexpected for a growing number of employees, particularly those in higher positions, to contemplate and explore alternative opportunities available within their industry.”
More on shock Adrian Newey Red Bull exit decision
‘Doesn’t make sense’ – Ted Kravitz questions Zak Brown’s prediction over more big-name Red Bull departures
‘He won’t work anywhere to help Lewis Hamilton’ – Ferrari ruled out for Adrian Newey by leading pundit
Newey has stated that he currently has no intentions of returning to F1, but he is not completely ruling it out. This decision comes as Formula 1 gears up for the implementation of new chassis and power unit regulations starting in 2026.
Priestley believes, based solely on his gut feeling rather than any received information, that Newey will ultimately find himself at Ferrari.
Priestley expressed strong conviction in Newey’s return to Formula 1, stating, “I have no doubt that we will witness his comeback in the sport.”
“Considering the imminent significant regulatory changes, it is highly unlikely that Adrian Newey would pass up such a tempting opportunity.”
“I believe there’s a possibility of history repeating itself, much like with Ferrari. Adrian Newey has consistently shown reluctance to join Ferrari, citing his aversion to working and residing in Italy as a major factor.”
In the past, working at Ferrari has posed challenges, but the company is undergoing significant changes. Similar to McLaren, who are constructing and reshaping their organizational structure to achieve success, Ferrari is also engaged in a similar process.
“They are in an excellent position. Fred Vasseur is the ideal person to guide that team, and favorable transformations are taking place.”
“With Lewis Hamilton coming along, there’s a boost for the entire team. And if Adrian Newey were to join that partnership, well who knows what they could achieve when there’s a huge regulation change just coming over the horizon for ’26.”
During his illustrious career, Newey-designed F1 cars have achieved an impressive tally of 25 titles, with two more expected to be added in 2024.
Read next – Adrian Newey’s next move: Ranking F1 legend’s options for life after Red Bull
