Adrian Newey, the iconic designer, has been busy on Red Bull’s Formula 1 race weekends, juggling more than just engineering tasks.
Newey, renowned for his groundbreaking designs, has been making appearances at key races like Miami, Monaco, and Silverstone. His main task? Assisting Red Bull with their race strategy decisions. Despite his impending departure set for March 2025, Newey continues to be deeply involved in the team’s on-track activities. “When I have been – so Miami and Monaco [and Silverstone] – then [it’s about] primarily talking to the drivers a little bit,” Newey shared, referring to his conversations with drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez. “And then a bit involved in strategy through the races. But it’s also been [about] meeting customers – 17 clients and customers.”
One might wonder why an engineering virtuoso like Newey, who is set to leave, would still play such an active role. It’s tied closely to his final project for the team: the RB17 hypercar. Revealed recently at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, this car not only showcases Newey’s design prowess but also represents a significant extension of the Formula 1 team into hypercar territory. “Because I think the point of this is it’s very much an extension of the Formula 1 team [building the RB17 with Red Bull Advanced Technologies],” Newey explained. His son, Harry Newey, will also continue working on this project even after Adrian’s departure, ensuring continuity.
Newey’s decision to leave Red Bull hasn’t affected the RB17’s timeline. The concept was completed in January 2024, and Newey has since focused solely on refining every detail of the hypercar. “What it’s actually done is that it’s meant that, because I’m kind of now out of Formula 1 since end of April, then it actually means that I can concentrate exclusively on 17 and really go into not just, if you like, the pure mechanical or the pure engineering details, but all the other peripheral things that we very much need to consider,” he said. These considerations include ease of servicing, longevity, and cost-efficiency – vital aspects to ensure the RB17 remains a top-tier vehicle for years to come.
The blend of his ongoing involvement with Red Bull and his meticulous work on the RB17 hypercar has kept Newey as busy as ever. Even after his official departure in March 2025, he plans to stay engaged, attending track tests and advising on queries. Therefore, while Newey may be stepping away from his role, his influence and legacy at Red Bull will undoubtedly endure. He is ensuring that the RB17 isn’t just another car but a lasting testament to engineering excellence.
Adrian Newey’s presence at Formula 1 race weekends is a testament to his commitment and passion for both Red Bull Racing and the RB17 hypercar. Despite his impending departure, his influence continues to shape the team’s strategy and future projects.
Source: Motorsport
