Christian Horner's first thoughts on Adrian Newey exit: concern for Ferrari or mere formalities?

Christian Horner speaks for the first time after the confirmation that Adrian Newey will leave Red Bull: mere formalities or statements that worry Ferrari?

The official announcement of Adrian Newey’s departure from Red Bull has shaken F1: Christian Horner spoke on the sidelines of the first free practice session in Miami, addressing the Ferrari rumors.

Adrian Newey will soon leave Red Bull, taking a step back in Formula 1, with his final months in Milton Keynes dedicated to the RB17 Hypercar project. The team principal of the Anglo-Austrian squad commented to Sky Sport Italia on the separation from the British engineer.

“We knew this was coming for some time and have accordingly prepared. He felt it was the right time to step aside, having worked hard in the team for thirty years, and thought it was the right moment. It’s sad to see him go because he has been such an important part of the team, but he leaves the team in great condition, at a time when he can step back and take some time to rest and leave the work to the rest of the technical team. He is a friend and we are grateful to him.” – the Red Bull team boss explained.

Then Christian Horner addressed the rumors that place Adrian Newey very close to Scuderia Ferrari. “There is a lot of speculation about this, but I honestly believe he will take some time to rest for himself. Then, who knows what the future holds, whether he will decide to return to Formula 1 after some time.” – the British motorsport executive believes.

“Now he will focus on the RB17, but for some years he was working only a few hours a day, the team structure will not change. Now he has decided to step back and take some time off, he has thought about it for a long time. I believe he deserves it, and I believe it is the right time. Now we must start a new chapter.”

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Christian Horner’s comments do not leave a sweet taste for Ferrari fans. According to the British boss of Red Bull, the technician from Colchester has made a life choice aimed at a time of pause and rest “after thirty years of intense work”. Are these mere formalities or is Adrian Newey’s immediate future truly not in Maranello?

Christian Horner, Adrian Newey