Christian Horner refutes rumors of mass exodus at Red Bull, claims the team has poached 250 people in past 12 months
After rumors of a mass exodus, including Adrian Newey & Jonathan Wheatley, Christian Horner said that Red Bull recruited nearly 250 employees.
Adrian Newey and Christian Horner (via IMAGO)
In May, Adrian Newey announced his departure from Red Bull after 18 years with the team. Following this, Jonathan Wheatley, the team’s sporting director, was offered the position of team principal at Audi, leading to his exit as well. Team principal Christian Horner has stated that the departure of the two key figures from the 2,000-member team prompted Red Bull to hire several new team members.
Christian Horner explained that Adrian Newey was on the verge of retiring from all his duties, prompting Red Bull to prepare for this transition. Horner noted that Newey’s departure in May coincided with the team’s recent performance slump. However, Max Verstappen stated that the car’s issues existed even when the aerodynamic genius was part of the team.
Horner believes the team possesses strong talent and resources to manage the change in personnel effectively. While acknowledging the impact of Newey’s exit, he emphasized that the team remains capable and competitive due to the strategic planning and the depth of skilled personnel.
Adrian has been on the brink of retiring for 10 years! So we had to be prepared for that and I believe we’ve got strength and depth.
Christian Horner said on Channel 4
Horner stated that over the past year, Red Bull has hired nearly 250 new employees across various projects. He emphasized that expanding the team is essential for developing their engine technology and enhancing Red Bull’s overall capabilities as they’re already laging in speed.
We’ve recruited, I think, close to 250 people during the last 12 months, across the project, into powertrains, into the brand new engine shop that we’re building.
Christian Horner added
Christian Horner reflects on Adrian Newey’s contribution to Red Bull and expresses pride in their achievements
Adrian Newey-built cars have won Red Bull their six constructors championships and Max Verstappen his three world titles. He played a significant role in Red Bull’s success over the years. With his exit confirmed, Christian Horner conveyed a sense of nostalgia, saying they would fondly remember and take pride in everything they have achieved together.
He’s been a big part of everything we’ve done and we’ll look back with great fondness and pride in everything that we achieved collectively.
Christian Horner stated
Adrian Newey has confirmed his next adventure, signing with Aston Martin as their technical director. Although the Briton initially wanted to retire and enjoy life after dedicating nearly his entire life to his craft, he found Aston Martin’s $100 million offer too irresistible to refuse.
Gaurang Kadam
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