In a surprising development within the Formula 1 community, Alan Permane has been appointed as the new team boss of Racing Bulls, taking charge amid significant leadership changes. This appointment occurred after Red Bull reshuffled their management structure ahead of the new season, positioning Permane, a familiar figure in the paddock, at the forefront of their satellite team.
Permane expressed genuine surprise over his promotion but remained focused on maintaining stability. Despite the sudden nature of the change, he emphasized his intention to continue the team’s recent progress without radical shifts.
Background to the Leadership Shift at Racing Bulls
The leadership change followed Red Bull’s decision to remove Christian Horner as team principal and promote Laurent Mekies to head Red Bull’s main squad. Mekies’ move created a vacancy at Racing Bulls, which the parent team chose to fill internally rather than searching for an outside leader. With his longstanding history in Formula 1 and current role as Racing Director at Racing Bulls since 2024, Permane was the natural choice.
Having spent three decades working primarily with the Enstone-based outfit, Permane is a well-established expert in racing operations. He acknowledged the mixed emotions upon hearing his new role, stating,
“I had many reactions to the news, some shock, some pride. It’s amazing that they feel I’m capable and have the potential to lead this team.”
—Alan Permane, Racing Bulls Team Boss
Continuing Momentum Built by Mekies and CEO Peter Bayer
Under the stewardship of Mekies and CEO Peter Bayer, Racing Bulls has gained a reputation as a formidable midfield contender since its rebranding last season. Permane aims to preserve the positive trajectory established during their leadership.
He made clear his plan to avoid disruption:
“The plan of action is to keep things as they are. Laurent and Peter have done a fantastic job with this team… My plan is to keep that running, keep the team on the same trajectory as it’s been on.”
—Alan Permane, Racing Bulls Team Boss
Racing Bulls is targeting a competitive position within the midfield pack as the team prepares for the coming regulatory changes in 2026, hoping to build steadily on its existing foundation.
Preparedness and Internal Reorganization Amid New Challenges
Permane highlighted his readiness to face new challenges despite the step up from Sporting Director to overall team boss. Reflecting on the shift, he commented,
“There will be many things that are new, but I’m very ready to take it on and then I’m confident I’ll do a good job.”
—Alan Permane, Racing Bulls Team Boss
As part of this transition, Racing Bulls will eliminate the role of a designated Racing Director. Instead, Chief Race Engineer Mattia Spini will take on added responsibilities, a change Permane welcomes:
“At the moment we won’t fill it… Mattia will step up, and he’s an excellent chief race engineer.”
—Alan Permane, Racing Bulls Team Boss
Looking Ahead: Racing Bulls’ Future in Formula 1
The wider motorsport world watches closely as Alan Permane assumes leadership of Racing Bulls. His deep experience, combined with a commitment to steady development, positions the team for continued success amid an evolving competitive landscape. With seasoned professionals like Peter Bayer and Laurent Mekies supporting the squad, Racing Bulls is expected to remain a challenging force in the midfield battle in the upcoming seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, 13 is permitted. Pastor Maldonado actually chose #13 when the permanent number system started in 2014. While some cultures see 13 as unlucky, F1 let drivers decide.
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A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British race car driver in Formula One. He currently races for Mercedes and has also driven for McLaren. Openly sharing his experience with ADHD, Hamilton talks about his many interests and passions.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. F1 Driver Number Rules
Selecting a number: Every driver can select a permanent number from 2 to 99 for their F1 career. The number 17 is not available.
Q. Which F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, whose full name is Sir Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton, was born in 1985. He is a British race car driver who competes in Formula One and currently drives for Mercedes. Previously, he has also driven for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD, as well as his various interests and passions.