Episode 3
Welcome to As The Paddock Turns! Let’s get right into this week’s episode because it’s a banger.
A long time ago, in a distant land called Stratford-upon-Avon (that’s in England), a human male was born. That humans father was a veterinarian and his mother was an ambulance driver during the Second World War. In 1980, he graduated with a first class honors degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics. His first job after gradating was for the Fittipadli Formula One team, and from that moment on; a legend was born, and he became the greatest designer of Formula One cars to ever live. This man’s name is Adrian Newey.
Newey-designed cars have won twelve F1 World Constructors' and thirteen World Drivers' championships. He is the GOAT; he is Jordan, Brady, and Mays, there is no one better at what he does. For the past 20 years, he has plied his trade at the Red Bull F1 team, and designed the last three cars that Max Verstappen had secured his WC’s with. On Thursday, of this week, rumors began to swirl that he wants to leave the team after this season. Towards Thursday evening, these rumors started getting verified by some very reputable motorsports journalists.
According to sources, Newey is fed up with the drama that has resulted from the allegations that Red Bull Team Principal sexual harassed a Red Bull team employee. News came out today, that Horners' accuser was not only the personal assistant of Horner, but also worked closely with Newey. In the shortest press release ever, Red Bull responded with, “we are not aware of any intention on Newey’s part to leave the team”
What now?
If this news is accurate, and it is looking more and more true, where will Newey land? I think there are four options on the table:
Ferrari
The Sucderia have offered him two contracts in the past, and according to many journalists, he was within 24 hours of signing the most recent one. He has openly shared how much he admires the team, and their allure. Going to Ferrari would reunite him with Lewis Hamilton, who drove a Newey designed car to his first WC.
Aston Martin
Even though Aston denies they offered him a contract, it’s an open secret that the offer was made about 4 weeks ago. While the dollar amount has not been released, speculation is that it is close to 40 million a year. Newey openly admires Fernando Alonso, and has lamented in the press in the past about not being able to work with him.
Retirement
He is 65 years old, and has achieved everything in the sport possible. He could just call it a day.
An unnamed team
If Newey is available, any team would be tripping over themselves to entice him to join. I could see Mercedes and McLaren making an attempt.
There is one complicating factor to all this speculation; his current Red Bull contract. It’s been reported that he has two-years left on his current deal, but that is all we know. Does he have an out clause? Would Red Bull force him to take gardening leave before he joined a rival team? Would Newey use his insider knowledge of Horner’s dirty deeds to leverage his way out?
My Take
Wow! Just when I thought this season could not get crazier, this new drops. For those new to F1, this is HUGE news. It does not get bigger than this, and it has cascading effect on a few things.
Max’s future at Red Bull
If Newey goes, I think it’s even money that Verstappen signs with Mercedes. Friday evening, rumors started floating around that a meeting with the Verstappen’s (Max and Jos), Max’s agent, and Toto Wolff had been scheduled for the weekend. IMO, with Newey leaving Red Bull, Max should sign with the Silver Arrows for one reason; Merceds is a factory team. Don’t forget, the 2026 RB Powertrain Engine will be its first year racing in anger, and I doubt it will be the best on the gird. Factory teams mean money, lots of it. Also, Max would only be sacrificing one world championship for sure, and with 26 rules being a big question mark, who knows if Mercedes can’t deliver.
Red Bull’s Future
Could Newey’s departure be the end of their dominance? On a technical level, maybe, but not right away. They will be good until the new rules come into effect, and probably beyone. Once 2026 arrives, all the teams start from zero, and I think there will already be a lot of Newey influence in Red Bull’s 26’ car design philosophy. It’s not Newey’s technical acumen missing that will be more damaging. I believe his departure will destroy the team on a cultural level. Basically, the man (Horner) accused of sexually harassing an employee drove out the GOAT of F1 car design. How would you feel if you were a member of that team if that happened?
The Driver’s Market
If the Newey Red Bull departure drives Max to jump to Mercedes, the domino effect on the drivers market will be seismic. Does Red Bull try to extract Lando Norris from his McLaren contract? Do they buy out Alex Albon’s Williams contract? Could they bring Sebastian Vettel back?
I think Newey will end up at Ferrari. It’s just too perfect for it not happen. The next month will be amazing from a drama perspective, and I can’t wait!
Other news
Audi Signs The Hulk
What has been rumored for weeks, finally happened; Hulkenberg signs 3 year deal to become Audi’s first Formula One driver. Nico is a very underrated driver; good for him for getting a factory drive.
Bearman to Haas?
All signs are pointing to Haas signing Jeddah wonder-kid, Ferrari reserve driver Oliver Bearman and getting a nice discount on those Maranello engines.
Is Bottas done?
If you follow Valteri on social media, you know he has been living his best life; starting a coffee and gin business, gravel racing, honorary citizen of Australia, and his relationship with Pro Cyclist Tiffany Cromwell. The news of Hulkenberg signing at Audi now means that he is probably done at the team and maybe the sport. I think he is actually driving pretty well with a complete shit car, and he is still bloody quick. It would be a shame if was dumped from the sport.
That is a wrap on this episode. See you all next week for the Miami recap!