Red Bull brushes off Newey, Wheatley exits: ‘The show goes on’

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has downplayed concerns over the high-profile exits of design visionary Adrian Newey and longtime sporting director Jonathan Wheatley.

After a two-decade tenure in F1 with Red Bull, Newey is set to embark on a new journey with Lawrence Stroll’s Aston Martin outfit.

As for Wheatley, the British engineer has switched his allegiance to Sauber as the Swiss team’s new team principal during its transition to Audi.

Despite the pair’s departure, Horner insists that Red Bull’s formidable structure and depth will ensure the Milton Keynes-based outfit remains competitive.

‘The Show Goes On’

"There’s only two going, and obviously, Adrian left in Miami, so we haven’t seen him. He’s been working on the RB17 since then, so he’s not been working on any F1 projects," Horner told Motorsport.

"Obviously, sad to see them go. They’ve both played important roles in the team over their tenure in the team. But the show goes on, and I think we’ve got the strength and depth we’ve got."

Horner highlighted the team’s forward-thinking approach, particularly as they prepare for their ambitious entry into F1 engine manufacturing under the 2026 regulations.

"Arguably, 2026 – what we’re gearing up for in 2026 with our own power unit – is by far the biggest challenge and the most ambitious project this team has ever taken on."

Evolution, Not Rebuild

Horner dismissed suggestions that the departures signify a need for a complete overhaul at Red Bull, framing the changes as part of a natural evolution.

"I would say rebuild goes way too far for two people that have left. It’s evolution," Horner explained.

"It’s something that has been on the cards for a little while, so something that has been part of the planning for some time."

Lambiase Steps Up

As part of this evolution, Max Verstappen’s trusted race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase will take on an expanded role while continuing to work closely with the four-time world champion as Verstappen seeks a fifth consecutive title.

"Yes, he’ll still be working directly with Max. He just takes on a broader role, obviously, as he steps up," Horner confirmed.

"It's just a natural progression trackside with those personnel. It’s great because it gives them an opportunity, and sometimes an organization, if it remains stagnant, it fails to progress.

"So, I think this is a fantastic opportunity of progression for many people in the team that have been longstanding team members that deserve that opportunity."

Horner’s comments underscore Red Bull’s commitment to stability and growth.

While the exits of Newey and Wheatley mark the end of an era, the team principal is confident that Red Bull’s robust foundation and forward-thinking mindset will keep them at the forefront of Formula 1 for years to come.

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