Andretti on Red Bull's issues: 'That's when it all started to go wrong'

Andretti on Red Bull’s issues: ‘That’s when it all started to go wrong’

At the outset of the 2024 Formula One season, Red Bull Racing seemed poised for another dominant run, largely thanks to the prowess of Max Verstappen and a well-engineered car. However, as the season progressed, the team’s fortunes have shifted notably. Many observers point to the announcement of Adrian Newey’s departure as a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of Red Bull’s struggles. Racing icon Mario Andretti weighed in on this situation during an exclusive interview with GPblog, expressing his belief that Newey, a legendary designer, has not received the recognition he deserves for his significant contributions to the sport.

Andretti, the 1978 F1 world champion, noted that Red Bull’s problems coincided with Newey’s gradual distancing from the team. He emphasized Newey’s unique ability to create “magic” within Formula One, recalling his own experiences working with the designer early in his career. According to Andretti, Newey has a rare talent for understanding drivers’ needs on the track, making him an invaluable asset. His admiration for Newey is clear, and he believes that the designer’s departure has left a void that has affected the team’s performance.

As Newey prepares to join Aston Martin, he takes on a multifaceted role that includes being a technical partner and becoming a co-owner of the team. This transition was publicly announced during an event at Aston Martin’s Silverstone headquarters. Andretti expressed confidence in Aston Martin’s future prospects, highlighting their substantial investments in technical staff and infrastructure. He believes that with Newey’s expertise, Aston Martin is well-positioned to challenge for a more competitive status in Formula One.

The shift in Red Bull’s performance has been a topic of much discussion within the F1 community. Andretti suggests that team principal Christian Horner should have acknowledged Newey’s contributions more openly, hinting that this oversight may have contributed to the team’s current struggles. The narrative surrounding Newey’s departure is underscored by the idea that his presence was a cornerstone of Red Bull’s success, and his absence is now being felt as the team grapples with challenges on the track.

Meanwhile, Aston Martin is branding itself as “the F1 team of the future,” fueled by significant investments and a strategic partnership with Honda, which will provide power units starting in 2026. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to enhance the team’s competitive edge. Andretti is optimistic about Aston Martin’s trajectory, asserting that they have the potential to become a frontrunner in the sport. He sees no reason why the team can’t realize its ambitions, given the solid foundation they are building.

As the season unfolds, Red Bull Racing’s struggles highlight the intricate dynamics of Formula One, where the departure of a key figure like Newey can have far-reaching implications. Andretti’s insights reflect a deep respect for Newey’s talents and a belief that his new role at Aston Martin could catalyze a shift in the competitive landscape of F1. With teams like Aston Martin investing heavily in their future, the competition is set to intensify, and the implications of Newey’s move may reverberate through the sport for years to come.

In summary, while Red Bull Racing started 2024 with high expectations, the loss of Adrian Newey has seemingly impacted their performance. Andretti’s comments underscore the designer’s pivotal role in the team’s past successes and suggest that his new position at Aston Martin could herald a new era for that team. With both Red Bull and Aston Martin navigating their paths, the developments in this year’s championship will be crucial in shaping the future of Formula One.