McLaren CEO Zak Brown has suggested that the impending departure of renowned designer Adrian Newey from Red Bull Racing could signal the beginning of a larger exodus from the reigning Formula One champions.
"I think the stuff that’s going on there is a bit destabilizing. It’s probably the first domino to fall," Brown stated during a press conference at the Miami Grand Prix. "My guess is he’s not the last based on the résumés that are flying around."
Red Bull confirmed this week that Newey, one of the most influential figures in Formula One engineering, will be leaving the team in early 2025. His decision comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding allegations against team principal Christian Horner.
Horner faced accusations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior by a female employee. An internal investigation conducted by Red Bull’s parent company cleared him of any wrongdoing in February. Subsequently, the employee who made the allegations was suspended and is currently appealing that decision.
The developments have raised concerns about internal stability within Red Bull. Brown’s comments highlight the potential impact such controversies can have on team dynamics and personnel retention in the highly competitive world of Formula One.
As the season progresses, the focus will be on how Red Bull manages these challenges and whether Brown’s predictions of further departures will come to fruition.
Reference(s):
F1: Newey exit 'first domino to fall' at Red Bull, says Brown
cgtn.com
