Max Unfazed by Wheatley's Exit, Newey to Follow

Max Verstappen sees no issue as Red Bull faces the loss of key figures Newey and Wheatley.

Max Verstappen has stated it is “normal” for a successful team like Red Bull to lose key personnel to rival teams, amid the impending departures of Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley.

Red Bull’s technical director, Newey, will leave the team in the first quarter of 2025 following an announcement in May.

Meanwhile, Wheatley, the long-serving sporting director of the reigning world champions, was announced during the summer break as the next team director of Sauber / Audi F1 starting in 2025.

However, Verstappen is not concerned that the latest high-profile departure from Red Bull is a sign that the team is in decline.

“We simply focus on on-track performance,” Verstappen responded during the press conference at the Dutch Grand Prix this Thursday.

“Of course, some people have left, others have joined the team, some are announced, others not. I think that’s life in Formula 1, especially when you’ve had a lot of success.”

“It is normal for other teams to try to poach people. It’s not new in Formula 1 anyway. I’m not too worried about it. We just need to stay focused and make sure we have the right people in the right place.”

Regarding Wheatley, who has been tasked with leading Sauber / Audi F1 in 2025, 2026 and beyond, Verstappen has “no hard feelings,” wishing his colleague every success in Hinwil, Switzerland.

“I have an excellent relationship with Jonathan, and it will always be that way.”

“Anyway, he is moving to another team. But it’s a different opportunity for him and also a different role. And yes, sometimes, of course, it’s also good to have a new challenge, isn’t it?”

“So, there are no hard feelings or anything. I’m happy for him. He has this opportunity. Of course, he will be missed by the team. But as a team, we also need to look to the future and move forward.”

“We still have to see how we are going to fill all the roles that Jonathan currently occupies. But I’m also happy for him. It goes both ways. And the team is of course also very grateful for what he has accomplished.”