Legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey has pledged his future to the Red Bull Formula 1 team by agreeing to a contract extension source motorsport.com. With his current deal set to expire at the end of this year, there had been speculation that rival teams could attempt to lure Newey away from Red Bull. However, following a dominant start to the 2023 season with the RB19, team sources have confirmed that a new agreement has been reached, ensuring that Newey and Red Bull will continue to collaborate for years to come.
As part of the contract extension, Newey will maintain his role as Chief Technical Officer. This position involves overseeing the progress of Red Bull’s F1 team, its Advanced Technology business, and its newly-formed Powertrains division. While there has been no official announcement regarding the contract’s length, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner expressed enthusiasm about Newey’s continued commitment to the team since joining the outfit in 2006.
Horner Praises Newey’s Contributions and Motivation
Christian Horner spoke highly of Newey’s impact on the Red Bull team, stating, “Adrian has been such a fundamental part since almost the beginning.” He went on to highlight the depth of Newey’s experience and knowledge, as well as his ability to work effectively with younger team members. According to Horner, Newey remains just as motivated as ever, demonstrating a keen interest in Red Bull’s Powertrains and Advanced Technology divisions.
Horner also explained that Red Bull’s current setup, which sees Newey collaborating with senior figures like F1 Technical Director Pierre Wache and Powertrains Chief Ben Hodgkinson, plays to his strengths. This arrangement allows Newey to apply his expertise across multiple areas without being restricted to a single topic, thus maximizing the breadth of his experience within the group.
Newey Excited by Red Bull’s Future Engine Developments
In addition to his work on the chassis and advanced technology sides of Red Bull’s operations, Newey has also expressed enthusiasm for the team’s upcoming venture into engine production. Starting in 2026, Red Bull will be designing its entire package, including engines, for the first time ever. Horner revealed that Newey, a highly competent engineer in combustion-related matters, is fully invested in the concept and sees great potential in it for the long term.
As one of Formula 1’s most successful car designers, Newey has achieved championship titles with Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull throughout his illustrious career. With a new contract extension in place, fans can look forward to seeing what innovative designs and technological advancements Newey will bring to the Red Bull F1 team in the coming years.
