Adrian Newey’s departure from Red Bull is expected to occur before the middle of 2025.
Red Bull’s chief engineer Paul Monaghan has opened up on the “sadness” he feels at the departure of Adrian Newey.
Newey has decided to take a step back from his responsibilities in the F1 team at Red Bull. He plans to gradually leave the team located in Milton Keynes by mid-2025.
Paul Monaghan: Adrian Newey still ‘pin-sharp’
Currently, Newey is in the midst of his gardening leave, during which he will dedicate his efforts to the development of Red Bull Technologies’ RB17 hypercar over the course of the next year.
After dedicating nearly four decades to working at the highest level in both Formula 1 and IndyCar, the chief technical officer responsible for overseeing the design of all Red Bull’s F1 machinery since 2007 has expressed his intention to temporarily step away from the world of motorsport, seeking a well-deserved break.
Newey, who has never been part of F1’s most iconic team, Ferrari, is rumored to potentially join them before the crucial regulation changes of 2026. Although he may consider a sabbatical or retirement, this move has been highly speculated.
Although the separation of Newey and Red Bull has been characterized by public admiration from both parties, Red Bull is reassured that their well-established succession plan, with the help of Newey himself, will prevent any decline in competitiveness.
Red Bull has successfully secured the re-signing of their technical director Pierre Wache, head of aerodynamics Enrico Balbo, and chief engineer Ben Waterhouse. Additionally, the team is optimistic that sporting director Paul Monaghan will also extend his contract in the near future.
Milton Keynes may face a significant setback as Chief engineer Paul Monaghan expresses his concerns over the potential consequences of Newey’s departure, deeming it a detrimental loss for the team.
“If he wants to stop, I have full respect and say, ‘OK, it’s entirely his choice’,” Monaghan told GPBlog’s Tim Kraaij.
“Personally, I will deeply miss his valuable insights and the way he patiently explains things to me when I struggle to grasp them. He takes the time to elaborate on how things are meant to function and guides us on what actions we should take. It’s truly a unique experience, isn’t it?”
However, as times have changed, he has made his own choice. I feel a little saddened by this because it means a loss for the team. He has made significant contributions to the team, and I believe it is truly unfortunate.
Monaghan expressed his appreciation for Newey’s contributions over the past two decades upon hearing the news of the 65-year-old’s decision.
He expressed that his predominant emotion regarding Adrian’s departure is sadness.
“He played a significant role in the team’s growth and progress, leading us to our first championships in 2010, ’11, ’12, and ’13 with immense determination and dedication. It was truly enlightening to witness his ambition and vision whenever he seized those small chances to showcase his aspirations and ideas.”
“The lessons were equally fantastic, and I sincerely hope I possessed enough humility to absorb them. He is an intelligent individual. The evidence of our progress during the initial years of the hybrid era, and subsequently acquiring the Honda engine, speaks for itself.”
In 2022, you will observe various cars operating under distinct regulations. Despite what anyone may claim, he remained actively involved in the process and maintained his sharpness and insightful perspective.
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According to reports, Newey’s attention towards the F1 aspect of the business diminished in recent months as his responsibilities expanded to encompass a wider scope. However, Monaghan highlighted a previous instance where this specific expertise proved extremely valuable in enhancing the team’s overall performance.
“When questioned about the lessons he has learned from Newey over the years, he replied, ‘Indeed, there were numerous.'”
“I must admit, it is quite humbling for me [laughs]. We encountered some challenges with the steering in the car, which left us puzzled. However, there are certain circumstances that hint at what might have caused the issue.”
Initially, you are able to engage in a brief conversation with him. Gradually, our understanding grows, and we start to perceive a deeper understanding. This progression signifies our evolution, as we acquire new knowledge and skills.
“The process was truly collaborative, with his exceptional openness to ideas, thoughts, and considerations. The origin of an idea held no significance.”
If he deemed it worthwhile after careful consideration, inquiries, and a few questions, we would move forward with it at any necessary speed, regardless of the magnitude of the change. Conversely, if he considered it foolish, I typically discovered that fact quite promptly.
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