Max Verstappen from Red Bull and Zak Brown from McLaren.
While understanding the reasoning, Max Verstappen believes McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown is simply trying to “stir things up” with his comments in the wake of the Adrian Newey bombshell.
Newey, considered one of the most accomplished Formula 1 designers in history, has officially departed from Red Bull ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, as confirmed on the eve of the event. While his association with the Formula 1 team has already concluded, his departure will formally take place in the first quarter of 2025.
Max Verstappen not phased by Zak Brown stirring tactics
Brown, commenting on the Newey development, expressed a lack of surprise due to the previous off-track issues that affected Red Bull. He speculated that Newey would be the initial person to leave, but not the last, given the impressive qualifications of potential replacements. Brown questioned whether Red Bull employees would start considering a departure from the team.
However, Verstappen is not giving any credit to such talk, suggesting Brown’s words are typical of an F1 rival trying to take advantage of any perceived opportunity.
Verstappen commented, “It is clear that he aims to cause controversy. As a team, comments like that hold no value for us.”
“I can certainly see things from his perspective. It’s only natural for everyone in the world of Formula 1 to strive for our people’s attention, and I comprehend that.”
“However, I lack genuine interest in those matters as well. Despite noticing the headlines, I refrain from clicking on them.”
More on how Adrian Newey exit could impact Red Bull
‘I’m not saying they will crash but…’ – Red Bull called out on ‘no problem’ to Adrian Newey exit attitude
Another big name could leave Red Bull as teams consider management change
Verstappen’s future with Red Bull, as he is on track to secure his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship, has become a subject of ongoing discussion. Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, openly expressed his desire to sign Verstappen, further fueling speculation.
Verstappen was questioned about the potential impact of Newey’s departure on his future, as the Red Bull F1 team bids farewell to their design guru.
Once more, he dismisses the significance of the words, arguing that the press lacks accurate understanding of the dynamics at Red Bull with Newey’s involvement.
Verstappen’s response to the question about the potential impact of Newey’s departure on his Red Bull tenure was more of a “not at the moment” rather than a straightforward “no.”
Verstappen responded with, “Currently, it does not affect my Red Bull future,” when questioned about the impact of Newey’s departure.
Currently, it seems as though individuals in the press are fabricating a multitude of events due to their lack of comprehension regarding the team’s dynamics and individual roles.
“But as previously mentioned, I must admit that I would have preferred him to remain, primarily because of his exceptional character and extensive knowledge. Furthermore, his potential contributions to another team, should he decide to join, cannot be overlooked.”
In addition to that, I have complete faith in the exceptional skills of our team members.
Newey has expressed that he currently has no intentions of leaving Red Bull, but he has not ruled out the possibility of returning to Formula 1 in the future.
Read next: Adrian Newey leaves door open for F1 return as verdict cast on criticised 2026 regulations
