Adrian Newey spoke for the first time to the press about his decision to leave Red Bull at Formula 1 and spoke about his plans for the future, amidst various speculations about what his fate will be after the end of 2024.
Red Bull confirmed on Wednesday that Newey will leave the team he has played for since 2006, having been a key player in winning 13 titles, seven drivers’ titles and six constructors’ titles to date.
Newey’s departure will actually take place in the first quarter of 2025 and, until then, he should be present at some races this year, such as this weekend’s Miami race. And it was there in Florida where Newey spoke to the press for the first time about the end of the relationship with Red Bull, in an interview with Sky Sports F1.
“It’s been 18 years of an incredible journey. Starting with Red Bull, a young team, coming from the ashes of Jaguar, and being alongside Christian [Horner] to build everything,” he said. “Honestly, when I signed, I had no idea where we would end up. It was a huge risk for my career, and it’s been an incredible ride ever since.”
“It’s been a huge honor to work with all the amazing boys and girls at the factory and the race team. It’s been fabulous.”
Adrian Newey, Director of Technology at Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images
When asked about the reasons behind the decision to leave Red Bull at this time, Newey said:
“Formula 1 takes up all your time, and I’ve been here for a long time. 2021 was a very tough year due to the battle against Mercedes in the championship and, at the same time, all the research and development of the RB18, which was the first of this generation of cars. I don’t know, there comes a point when you feel, like I said, Forrest Gumpthat you feel a little tired.”
Since rumors began about Newey’s departure from Red Bull, many have said that this could be a result of the turmoil the team has been experiencing this year, especially after the investigation involving Horner and the political war that arose from it. He, however, indicated that he started thinking about leaving between the end of last season and the beginning of this one.
“I suppose it was during the winter, and as events unfolded this year I thought… I’m lucky enough not to have to work to survive. I work because I enjoy it, and I believe now is a good time to take a step ago, rest and take stock of life.
As expected, since his departure was made official, Newey has become the object of desire of practically every team on the grid. But, he says he intends to rest.
“I’ll probably go traveling with Mandy, my wife, and my dogs. We’ll take a motorhome to travel around France and enjoy life. Then at some point, I don’t know when, I’ll turn around and say, ‘Well, it’s time for the next adventure.’ . Now I have no plan.”
The chance to go to Ferrari and work with Lewis Hamilton was the most talked about, and even the seven-time champion said he hoped to have the chance to stay alongside the Brit. But he insists he has no plans.
“Honestly, it’s very kind of Lewis to say that, and I feel honored, but at this point it’s time to rest a little and see what happens next.”
