Sky Sports F1 reporter Craig Slater has shed light on the intriguing Max Verstappen Adrian Newey relationship, revealing that despite their mutual respect, the two figures never truly connected on a personal level. Newey, who served as Red Bull’s chief technical officer during three of Verstappen’s four Formula 1 championships, left the team midway through Verstappen’s 2024 title campaign at the Miami Grand Prix.
Newey’s exit marked a significant turning point for Red Bull, as the team’s dominance started to wane following his departure. For the remainder of the 2024 season, Red Bull managed to secure only five victories, as Verstappen faced fierce competition from Lando Norris in the battle for the championship.
Professional Respect Amid Personal Distance
Although their collaboration yielded remarkable success, Slater suggested on Ted’s Podbook that Verstappen and Newey’s working relationship was far from seamless. He stated,
“He also pointed [out] that he did not want to comment on Perez’s claim that since Adrian Newey has gone, that’s been the trigger of all Red Bull’s issues,”
emphasizing the complexity of attributing blame for Red Bull’s struggles.
Slater added,
“People tell me that they did not have… I’m not saying Max and Adrian Newey had a kind of problem relationship at Red Bull.”
Still, he noted,
“But I’m not sure that they were the closest of companions in arms, if you like. That’s been expressed to me.”
He also mentioned,
“Professionally, I do think they hold each other in high regard, but what I’m saying is it’s been expressed by one or two people that they didn’t maybe click as personalities.”
Future Uncertainty Surrounding Verstappen’s Career
As the 2024 season progresses, speculation continues about Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1. Although his contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2028, there is conjecture that an exit clause could allow him to depart as early as this year. Rumors link Verstappen with a potential move to Mercedes, where seats are available due to George Russell and Kimi Antonelli not yet renewing their contracts.
Meanwhile, Aston Martin’s recent acquisition of Adrian Newey as managing technical director has further fueled discussions. The team, which collaborates closely with Honda, remains interested in Verstappen; however, they have publicly confirmed that Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will maintain their positions as drivers for the upcoming season.
The Rising Stakes After Newey’s Departure
Adrian Newey’s transfer to Aston Martin not only impacted Red Bull’s performance but also reshaped the competitive landscape in Formula 1. His technical expertise had long been a significant factor in Verstappen’s championship successes. Now, amidst renewed competition and shifts in team alliances, Verstappen’s choices carry considerable weight for his career trajectory and the sport’s future.
With heightened interest from rival teams and ongoing pressure within Red Bull, the coming months are set to be pivotal for Verstappen. The interplay between driver and engineering vision, as previously seen with Newey, will remain a focal point in discussions about sustaining championship-winning momentum.