F1 News: Adrian Newey Comments on Red Bull Racing's RB20 Challenges Post-Departure

Adrian Newey recently commented on the difficulties Red Bull Racing has encountered with their RB20 model, fueling discussions about how his departure has affected the team. After leaving the team in April, Newey stated as quoted by Sports Illustrated , "I can't comment ... because once I'm out, I'm out," highlighting that he hasn't been involved with the team's development since his exit. This has raised questions about whether his absence is connected to Red Bull's recent struggles.

"Well I have heard it, I have to be honest I don't really read the press for kind of personal reason going back to my Leyton House days. But the reality is I can't comment, I really can't comment, because once I'm out, I'm out."

"I haven't been able to contribute to the development of the current things since April," Newey added. "But why the team has been less competitive recently I don't know because I'm not involved."

The RB20 has failed to live up to the success of its predecessor, the RB19, which dominated the 2022 and 2023 seasons. The team, once nearly unbeatable, is now facing fierce competition from McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes. Both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have yet to reach the level of success they previously enjoyed, with Verstappen’s last victory occurring in June at the Spanish Grand Prix, and Perez still winless this season. Their sixth and eighth-place finishes at the recent Italian Grand Prix underscore the team's decline.

Newey, a legendary figure in Formula 1 with seven drivers' championships, six constructors' titles, and 120 race victories during his two-decade tenure with Red Bull, played a critical role in the team's rise to dominance. His departure, announced during the Miami Grand Prix, has prompted speculation about the future direction of Red Bull Racing, especially given the technical challenges they now face.

Related: F1 News: Adrian Newey Critiques Sky Sports F1 for 'Demonizing' Verstappen and Vettel

As the season unfolds, Red Bull Racing will need to find ways to regain their competitive edge without Newey’s technical expertise. His retrospective comments underline the complexities of staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of Formula 1, where success is never guaranteed.