Adrian Newey, the design guru of Red Bull F1.
Adrian Newey has given the clearest indication yet he will not retire from Formula 1, explaining that he is likely to “probably go again” after a bit of a break.
Speculation has been ongoing about the great designer’s next move after the announcement that he will leave Red Bull in the first quarter of 2025, and one key consideration had been whether or not he will remain in Formula 1 at all having now passed his 65th birthday.
Adrian Newey: ‘I’ll probably go again’ after a break
Newey announced that he will be taking a break from the sport before making a decision on his future, despite receiving interest from Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Williams.
Having already relinquished his Formula 1 design responsibilities at Red Bull, he now aims to prioritize the RB17 hypercar project. This forthcoming vehicle is expected to incorporate a compilation of his notable Formula 1 innovations, making it a remarkable track car. Following the completion of this project, he plans to completely depart from the team in the first quarter of 2025.
After that moment, he would have no restrictions on gardening leave, granting him the freedom to join any of Red Bull’s competitors if he wishes.
Newey’s recent disclosure about his potential involvement in another Formula 1 endeavor shed light on the impact of two experienced figures in motorsport who played a significant role in shaping his decision. Additionally, he provided some valuable information about his family and expressed his reluctance to completely detach himself from work.
“I mean, popular question at the moment,” Newey said in an interview with Eddie Jordan with Oyster Yachts when asked what his future holds.
If you had asked me 15 years ago, when I was 65 years old, if I would ever entertain the idea of switching teams, relocating, and continuing to work for another four or five years, I would have thought you were completely crazy.
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Afterward, several events seemed to occur simultaneously. My father, a veterinarian, had a great passion for cars, and I believe that’s where my own interest stemmed from. Eventually, he expressed his desire to retire at 60, but he ended up semi-retiring at 62. He relocated with my mother to Yorkshire and continued working as a locum until the age of 65, at which point he officially retired.
To be truthful, it’s a bit sentimental for me to admit, but he seemed to have veered off course a little during his retirement. I had expected him to derive immense joy from working on cars and other things, but he somehow lost his enthusiasm.
I approached Bernie Ecclestone and Roger Penske, two individuals whom I deeply admire, seeking to uncover their secrets. They have managed to sustain their success over time, demonstrating remarkable mental and physical agility despite their age.
Both of them reiterated the familiar adage that the brain resembles a muscle, requiring regular exercise to stay sharp and functional.
Furthermore, my passion for becoming a designer in the field of motor racing ignited when I was merely eight or ten years old. Fortunately, I have been able to realize this dream and secure my first job in motor racing. Ever since then, I have remained in the industry, making each day an added blessing.
“I have a genuine passion for my work, which is why I find it so fulfilling. However, I recognize that taking a break is important. Similar to Forrest Gump’s sentiment after his lengthy run, I currently feel a bit weary, but I will likely embark on another adventure in due time.”
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