BREAKING: Helmut Marko Admits Red Bull Misses Adrian Newey After…read more
BREAKING: Helmut Marko Admits Red Bull Misses Adrian Newey After…read more
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has acknowledged the team is feeling the absence of legendary designer Adrian Newey, following Liam Lawson’s short-lived stint with the senior squad.
After just two race weekends in Australia and China, Lawson has been relegated to Racing Bulls, with Yuki Tsunoda taking over his seat for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. Marko admitted that promoting Lawson may have been “a mistake,” as the 23-year-old struggled under pressure and failed to adapt to the challenging RB21.
Lawson’s difficulties were evident, as he was eliminated in Q1 during all three of his qualifying sessions and finished last in both sprint and grand prix qualifying in China. This has only fueled speculation that Red Bull’s car has suffered since Newey’s departure 11 months ago.
Newey, who officially left Red Bull last May and recently joined Aston Martin on March 3, played a key role in the team’s dominance. Marko openly admitted that his absence is having an impact.
“Of course, we miss someone like that,” Marko told OE24. “A Newey is a Newey.”
However, he defended Red Bull’s technical team, emphasizing that the organization remains strong despite losing its star designer.
“But we are a team of almost a thousand people. The group behind him was developed gradually,” he added.
Interestingly, Lawson’s move to Racing Bulls may not be a complete downgrade, as that car is reportedly easier to handle than the RB21.
“The RB21 is tricky to drive,” Marko explained. “The Racing Bull is more manageable and quick over one lap in qualifying. But in race conditions, it falls significantly behind the Red Bull Racing car.”
As Red Bull navigates the challenges of its post-Newey era, attention now shifts to Tsunoda’s performance in the RB21 and whether the team can regain its edge.
