F1 Controversy - Newey to leave Red Bull Over Horner Allegations

[uk666]

F1 Controversy - Newey to leave Red Bull Over Horner Allegations

Red Bull design chief Adrian Newey is to leave the team in the wake of the controversy involving allegations about team principal Christian Horner.

Newey is the most successful designer of the modern Formula One era and has been an instrumental part of Red Bull’s success but is said to have become uncomfortable with his position at the team since the team principal, Christian Horner, was cleared after an investigation into accusations of inappropriate behaviour by a female employee.

The 65-year-old Newey has been with Red Bull since 2006, only one year after the team was formed. He has since designed cars that have won seven drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships for Red Bull.

The British design chief has been strongly linked with Ferrari and is known to have been made an offer by Aston Martin, but he is likely to be of interest to all leading teams now his availability is known.

If he departs, though, it would represent a serious threat to the team keeping the world champion, Max Verstappen. The Dutchman’s future with Red Bull is already under question although he is contracted until 2028 but the loss of Newey would represent serious cause for him to consider a new course.

Newey is understood to have been upset by the events at Red Bull that have overshadowed the racing this year. Before the season began Horner was investigated by Red Bull’s parent company, Red Bull GmbH, after an employee made allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour.

Horner has always denied any wrongdoing and the grievances against him were dismissed by the independent investigation. However, the complainant has launched an appeal and is expected to take the case to an employment tribunal should that be unsuccessful.