Red Bull’s chief technical officer, Adrian Newey, has reportedly opted to stay with the team amidst the uncertainty surrounding the future of team principal Christian Horner.
Horner faces accusations of inappropriate behaviour from a female employee, prompting an investigation by Red Bull into the matter.
The 50-year-old is scheduled to participate in a meeting on Friday, during which he will be questioned by an external investigator.
Following the meeting, the investigator will deliver their findings and recommendations to Red Bull next week.
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The team is eager to resolve the issue before their season launch event on February 15. Horner has denied the allegations.
Speculation has arisen regarding the futures of both Horner and Newey, who have collaborated closely at Red Bull for nearly two decades.
Reports suggest that their contracts may contain a clause allowing one to depart if the other does.
However, according to German outlet F1 insider, Newey has informed Red Bull of his intention to remain loyal, even if Horner leaves the team.
Newey had previously expressed interest in joining Ferrari, particularly after the announcement of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joining the team next year.
Nevertheless, the 65-year-old stated last year that he was unlikely to leave Red Bull anytime soon.
“I’ve had discussions with Ferrari in the past. I’ve been very tempted because it’s such a legendary brand,” he told Sky Italy.
“The time that was most tempting would have been around 1993 and 1997 when I moved from Williams to McLaren.
“At the time, my kids were young, and I didn’t know how they would settle in an Italian school. If I was to move to a team based in Italy, I would have to relocate with the family.
“Now at Red Bull, I have been involved more or less since the start.
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“Moving teams is always a huge workload to re-establish yourself and get accustomed to the working practices, so honestly, if I were 20 years younger, maybe.”
Newey reportedly inked a new contract with Red Bull last season.
While a team spokesperson declined to discuss contracts, they affirmed that “Adrian will be with us for a long while.”