Adrian Newey is promised – with a deal found and signed – to Aston Martin Racing, but the projection made of the same stuff as dreams continues to float through the corridors of Milton Keynes, especially since the RB20 is no longer the leading car in the Formula 1 Championship.
It’s no coincidence that Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing’s consultant, spoke to ORF, an Austrian television broadcaster, to explain what led the brilliant designer from Stratford-upon-Avon away from Milton Keynes.
“When you win – and we have won for the last three years, dominating in 2023 – obviously, employees are sought after by other teams. It’s a common game in Formula 1. What leaves me a bit perplexed are the numbers being offered. We are always dealing with the cost cap. And these employees often receive offers that are double or even more.”
“This means we couldn’t keep some of them. Newey has been with us for 17 years, Wheatley for 19. They were part of the team, the group, and the company. They were part of the team, part of our success. This hurts, but if they leave for financial reasons, for career reasons, because we can’t keep up with the offers, then that’s just how things go.” – he added.
“And of course, with the death of Dietrich Mateschitz, there was a certain change. He was, in fact, the sole leader. He made quick decisions. He was a charismatic entrepreneur who also had a lot of foresight and was willing to take risks with the racing team. And all of this, of course, now… the company and everything else need to be set up differently because you can’t find another individual like him, and he can’t be replaced by just one person. This could also be part of the change… I believe this was the main reason for Newey’s decision to seek a new challenge.” – the Red Bull advisor pointed out.
In addition to the passing of Mateschitz, who was Red Bull Racing’s true point of reference until his death, Adrian Newey was also affected by the “Horner Case,” which emerged at the beginning of the year and had an influence, even though it had no consequences for the current Red Bull team principal.
“Let’s put it this way: the matter concerning Horner didn’t help,” Helmut Marko continued. “But internally, we sat down and said we need to join forces, work together in all areas to win this world championship and also have a winning car for the future.”
“Because one thing is clear: if we don’t provide Max Verstappen with a car with which he can win long-term, all the contracts of the top drivers include performance-related exit clauses, and Max will surely see his future where he’s offered the best package. As long as he’s still enjoying himself. There’s another factor that has come into play…” – the Red Bull advisor concluded.
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