ARTICLE AD BOX
Adrian Newey's future is always a hot topic in the F1 scene. The experienced car designer, one of the greatest in the history of the sport, has announced that he will leave Red Bull at the end of this season and take a period of rest. However, some were immediately skeptical of the 65-year-old's statements, speculating that Newey might have intentions of continuing his career with another team. Aston Martin has been frequently mentioned as a potential destination for him. Ferrari and McLaren were also mentioned.
Sky Sports News' Craig Slater surprised the F1 community by confirming that Newey has indeed expressed interest in Aston Martin. Slater noted that confirmation of Newey’s move to Aston Martin is expected soon. As a journalist with access to various sources and insiders within teams, Slater's announcement adds weight to the speculation.
“Well I can tell you that my understanding is that Adrian Newey has said yes to the Formula 1 team based at Silverstone, which is Aston Martin,” Slater said, as quoted by Crash.
“I expect official confirmation that he will be joining them early next week. Let’s say next Tuesday, because Aston Martin have called a news conference for Tuesday of next week. It makes sense to present Adrian Newey on that date in advance of the next grand prix of the year in Azerbaijan."
Slater confirmed that Newey is bound by obligations that he must fulfill until September 6. With that date being tomorrow, Newey's future could soon become clear. Having such a famous figure on board is a massive opportunity for any team, but the question remains as to who will ultimately make the decisive move to attract Adrian. Based on current indications, it seems Newey is likely on the verge of signing with Aston Martin, with more details expected to emerge next week.
“Newey has certain contractual obligations which he has to meet with his current employers Red Bull. That limits him to making a decision about his future and signing for another team until September 6.
But my understanding is that for quite a while now, he has had personal terms agreed with Aston Martin.”-Adrian Newey continued.
Slater revealed that Newey's private tour of Aston Martin’s cutting-edge Silverstone facility earlier this summer was pivotal in persuading him to join Lawrence Stroll’s ambitious project.
During this visit, Newey was impressed by the new wind tunnel, simulator, and other advanced equipment designed to bring the team to the forefront of F1. This experience likely influenced his decision to choose Aston Martin over other teams like Ferrari, McLaren, and Williams.
Newey is an ambitious person who wants to work with a team that has the foundations for success. Being an underdog who has no prospects or potential to fight for the top is not the kind of challenge Newey would like. His intentions are to build a story in a team that can win championships in the coming years. Aston Martin seems to be a team that really has the potential for such things.
Slater also pointed out that while it would have been a bit weird move for British F1 fans to see Newey team up with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, potentially helping Hamilton achieve an eighth world title, Newey is now set to join Aston Martin. The key question now is how quickly Newey can turn Aston Martin into championship contenders and whether he can add to his impressive record of 25 world championships, which could grow to 27 if Red Bull wins another double title this year.
Adrian Newey on his decision
The 65-year-old confirmed the decision in May of this year, pointing out that it is time to retire and take a period of rest. Newey has been part of F1 all his life. Being year after year in chaos, race and pressure is tiring. Therefore, this experienced car designer realized that it was time to rest.
In addition, the family was an important factor in his decision. Adrian admitted that he will probably return to the F1 world after the break. Judging by the signs, Newey could find a new job in a few days and continue his story in another team.
"As Forrest Gump said at the end of his long run, I feel a little bit tired at the moment but at some point I'll probably go again," Newey said.
"It was a difficult decision [to leave] because they'd been my family. I felt almost ... not paternal but a degree of responsibility."
Aston Martin leaders still don't want to say anything, and are keeping things under wraps. A lot will be known next week.
English (US)