According to the German, the Red Bull team principal isn’t suited to handle the post-Newey era.
It seemed like smooth sailing at Red Bull. Yet, as often is the case, beneath the veneer of apparent tranquility lay discontent temporarily buried. Adrian Newey has indeed informed the team of his desire for a change of scenery, weary of power struggles and a role within the team that he deems beneath him.
In these internal battles, team principal Chris Horner naturally took center stage, initially accused and later cleared of allegations of inappropriate behavior toward an employee.
It’s precisely Horner whom Ralf Schumacher has strongly criticized, suggesting that Red Bull would plummet into mediocrity if the Briton remains at the helm of the pit wall.
“Adrian Newey needs harmony, a good atmosphere, a conducive working environment. And now it must be said plainly: Red Bull is falling apart,” these were his words to Sky Sport Deutschland.
“The responsibility for what’s happening at Red Bull lies solely with Horner, who is clinging to power with all his might. I don’t think his problems will end once Newey departs: Max Verstappen is already considering it, as is Helmut Marko,” he added.
“I give Red Bull another two years. If they continue to hold on to Horner, the team will sink into mediocrity. I’m quite sure of it.”
In short, the 50-year-old has weathered internal attacks, but it was clear from the outset that Red Bull couldn’t be the same team without Newey, regardless of how the chat saga would unfold.
The reckoning in Milton Keynes was bound to cause some departures, and if Horner stays, others may leave. Not just Newey, but also Marko and Verstappen.
