The Formula 1 world has been buzzing with rumors and speculation surrounding Red Bull Racing. McLaren F1 CEO Zak Brown recently made a bold claim, describing Red Bull’s current environment as “pretty toxic.” Let’s delve into the details and explore what’s happening behind the scenes.
McLaren CEO Zak said, “Red Bull is a pretty toxic environment right now. There is more to come. “Newey’s departure is an important one, because I think a lot of people at Red Bull started working with him. I already mentioned that there were resumes circulating.”
Zak Brown says Red Bull has 'a pretty toxic environment'
"Red Bull is a pretty toxic environment right now. There is more to come.
"Newey's departure is an important one, because I think a lot of people at Red Bull started working with him. I already mentioned that there were… pic.twitter.com/hFmTVU830s
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) June 11, 2024
“That happens all the time, but you see a higher level of discomfort. I also think that in the future it will be more difficult with sponsors, because they are going to examine carefully what they are associated with. That’s a tricky situation.”
Brown’s statement highlights the internal challenges at Red Bull. The departure of design chief Adrian Newey has raised eyebrows. Many within the team had worked closely with Newey, and his exit has left a void. Resumes are circulating, indicating that the team is already feeling the impact of his absence.
Brown also points out that the toxic environment could affect Red Bull’s sponsorships. Sponsors are increasingly cautious about their associations, and any negative publicity can harm their brand image. As Red Bull grapples with internal issues, sponsors may think twice before committing.
McLaren CEO on Verstappen’s Uncertain Future
Earlier this season, Red Bull Racing faced internal turmoil when team principal Christian Horner was accused of inappropriate behavior by a female colleague. Although he was cleared after an investigation, tensions remain. Verstappen’s father, Jos, has reportedly fallen out with Horner, warning that the team could “explode” if Horner continues in his position.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull’s star driver, is at the center of another drama. His contract ties him to the team until 2028, but rumors persist about his future. Verstappen’s father, Jos, has been outspoken, adding to the uncertainty. With McLaren and Ferrari closing in on Red Bull’s dominance, Verstappen’s loyalty remains a question mark.
McLaren F1 CEO Zak Brown recently said, “You have the whole Verstappen drama. Is he staying or is he leaving? Max has a contract, only his father is pretty outspoken.”
Reports suggest that Verstappen might be tempted by a move to Mercedes. Helmut Marko’s potential departure from Red Bull for the German team adds fuel to the fire. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has publicly courted Verstappen since Lewis Hamilton’s departure, but the champion insists he’ll honor his Red Bull contract.
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