Former Aston Martin strategist Bernie Collins warns of the major impact that a possible departure of Adrian Newey could have for Red Bull.
The rumours are growing stronger that star designer Adrian Newey will close the door at Red Bull at the end of this season. Newey is considered one of the best designers of all time in Formula 1, as is the fact that his share in Red Bull’s successes is significant.
Since the start of the season, there has been unrest at Red Bull and there has been an internal power struggle between the Austrian and Thai branches of the company.
In a conversation with ‘Sky’, Bernie Collins says that a possible departure of Newey from Red Bull could have major consequences for the team.
“It’s big news and it’s been bubbling for a while, there’s been a lot of discussion about Adrian’s contract and where he goes, is it Aston? Is it Ferrari?”
“It’s big, big news for any team, because within a team you have these leaders, regardless of how much they actually do, which I think is what Christian Horner is trying to say, ‘there are a lot of other designers working in the background’. ”
“But this team is built around Adrian. He has grown the team, he has built the structure and the greater power struggle is also worrying.”
“This would mean Adrian would be gone for the 2026 regulation change and that would have a huge impact on the performance of this car.”
“Red Bull has been the strongest in terms of aerodynamics in recent years, and even before that, even when they weren’t winning.”
“This would have a huge effect on their championship chances.”
In addition to the rumours about Newey’s departure, there are also rumours about Max Verstappen’s departure. When asked what would have the biggest impact, Collins responds as follows.
“Max and many other drivers won because of the car, because the car is strong, you need both combinations.
“This may not affect next year, even if Adrian is on ‘gardening leave’.”
“In 2026 with the new regulations, if he’s not working on that car and there’s an internal power struggle within the team working on that car, despite how many great aerodynamics engineers you have, you need the team working together and you have that leadership needed.”
“So this is really crucial for their chances in 2026.”