Ford has addressed the departure of Adrian Newey from Red Bull.
With Red Bull losing Adrian Newey by the middle of next year, future engine partner Ford has shared its thoughts on his departure.
In 2026, Ford will join forces with Red Bull’s newly established engine division, Red Bull Powertrains, to enter Formula 1. This collaboration implies that the American automotive giant will not provide power for the upcoming Adrian Newey project.
Ford fully committed to Red Bull future
With Red Bull in F1, Ford showcased their absolute dominance by effortlessly sweeping away all competition. The Milton Keynes-based team exhibited exceptional performance and a well-balanced management structure.
However, in 2024, the harmony was disturbed as Red Bull GmbH conducted an internal investigation regarding allegations concerning team boss Christian Horner. Although the investigation was ultimately dismissed, it resulted in tensions within the team, as Horner still enjoyed support from the Thai and Austrian shareholders.
Adrian Newey’s future plans were expedited due to the off-track dramas, prompting the chief technical officer to submit his resignation at Red Bull.
A key part of the team who has overseen all the dominant Red Bull designs over the years, Newey’s departure will mark a big loss for the squad – particularly ahead of the major regulation change for 2026.
Newey’s participation in F1 has currently reached its conclusion as he transitions to overseeing the introduction of the upcoming Red Bull RB17 hypercar, scheduled for production in the following year.
Ford’s upcoming entry into Formula 1 in 2026 could have caused worry for the company upon hearing about Newey’s departure. This concern could have been heightened due to their impending collaboration with RBPT in a long-term technical partnership. However, Mark Rushbrook, Ford’s Performance Motorsports director, reassured that Newey’s exit will not affect their plans.
Rushbrook expressed great admiration for Adrian, acknowledging his remarkable career and the immense contributions he has made to various F1 teams. Rushbrook particularly highlighted Adrian’s exceptional 19-year stint at Red Bull.
“We extend our best wishes to him for his future endeavors. However, our complete attention remains devoted to the power unit program for 2026. This news does not alter our plans, and we are proceeding with full determination.”
In a similar fashion to reputable companies and successful racing teams, it is crucial to have a well-thought-out succession plan and continuously nurture and enhance the skills of individuals within the organization. This principle holds true in this particular case as well. It is important to note that my intent is not to undermine Adrian’s abilities, as he is truly exceptional. However, it is customary for every team to have a succession plan in place.
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Why Adrian Newey has decided to leave F1
Although there is much speculation regarding Newey’s potential move to another team in Formula 1, the British designer has not yet disclosed any future plans following his departure from Red Bull Racing and the sport itself.
In his sole on-record interview since confirming his departure, Newey revealed to Sky F1 that he had been contemplating leaving for a while. He specifically highlighted the challenging nature of the 2021 season as a significant factor in his decision.
Despite enduring severe head injuries in a cycling accident, 2021 proved to be a significant year for Newey. Not only did he have to focus on the continuous development of the RB16B until the championship’s conclusion, but he also had to fine-tune the groundbreaking RB18 machine, as it marked the last year under the old regulations and the commencement of the revolutionary 2022 regulations.
“Formula 1 is all-consuming,” he said.
I have been engaged in this endeavor for quite a while now. The year 2021 proved to be exceptionally demanding due to the intense competition with Mercedes throughout the championship. Simultaneously, we dedicated significant effort to the research and development of the RB18, the pioneering model of this current car generation.
“I reached a certain juncture where, much like Forrest Gump stated, ‘I’m starting to feel a bit fatigued.’ To be honest, I’m unsure.”
There were rumors that Newey’s departure was accelerated due to a disagreement with Horner, but both individuals have publicly stated their admiration for each other and the depth of their relationship.
According to Horner, “Our relationship has been and continues to be incredibly enjoyable.”
“He has made significant contributions to our team, and in addition to being work colleagues, we are also good friends.”
Although we’ll be saddened by his departure, he has left the team in a favorable condition. Moreover, we have a highly skilled and diverse group of individuals who possess the capability and resources to propel us forward.
My experience with Adrian has been truly incredible. Not only is he a dear friend, but he also holds the esteemed position of being the godfather to my children. Despite the passage of time, our bond as friends remains unshakable.
Newey expressed the possibility of potentially participating in a competitive manner with the forthcoming 2026 regulations.
He commented that upon reviewing the ’26 regulations, they appear to be somewhat peculiar.
However, dismissing them and concluding that they will not be successful is premature in my opinion.
As a designer, there is always a moment when you initially assess something and form an opinion on whether it is good or bad.
“I have no doubt that ’26 will present yet another significant challenge.”
I cannot confirm my involvement, but I am unsure either way. Nevertheless, for those who are participating, it will undoubtedly present a significant challenge.
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