Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher foresees a bleak future for Red Bull Racing if they retain Christian Horner as team principal.
Schumacher predicts a downward spiral into mediocrity within two years if changes aren’t made at the helm.
Referring to the impending departure of design chief Adrian Newey, Schumacher emphasized Newey’s need for a positive work environment, implying that under Horner’s leadership, such conditions are lacking.
He stated to Sky Germany, “Adrian Newey needs harmony, he needs a good atmosphere, a good workplace,” pointing to Horner as the source of the team’s current disarray.
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Schumacher’s sentiments echo public discontent within the Red Bull camp. Jos Verstappen, father of Red Bull’s star driver Max Verstappen, has openly called for Horner’s resignation, while Adrian Newey’s reported departure further signifies internal unrest.
Schumacher predicts that Newey’s exit may just be the beginning of Red Bull’s troubles under Horner’s leadership.
The departure of Newey, known for his engineering prowess, could prove detrimental to Red Bull’s competitiveness, especially with impending design regulations for the 2026 season.
However, the potential loss of Max Verstappen, who has dominated the circuit for three consecutive years, could be even more damaging.
Verstappen’s contract runs until 2028, but speculation arises regarding an exit clause linked to the departure of Dr. Helmut Marko, his mentor and Red Bull’s motorsports advisor.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed interest in recruiting Verstappen, potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
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Verstappen’s possible departure represents another consequence of the turmoil surrounding Horner’s leadership, as predicted by Schumacher.
He emphasizes the need for Horner to prioritize the team’s interests over personal power, urging him to resign promptly to mitigate further damage to Red Bull’s reputation and performance.
Schumacher’s warnings serve as a stark reminder of the precarious position Red Bull Racing finds itself in, with internal strife threatening its future success on the Formula 1 circuit.