Red Bull is gradually returning to internal stability and peace within its otherwise dominant Formula 1 team, according to a CEO from the energy drink giant.
Throughout this season, the Formula 1 paddock has been buzzing with constant discussions and speculation about the power struggle within the team's leadership and the scandal surrounding Christian Horner.
The Times now reports that another significant figure in the Red Bull team might soon exit following Adrian Newey's departure.
Jonathan Wheatley, who joined Red Bull Racing as chief mechanic in 2006 and now serves as the sporting director, is reportedly on the verge of leaving the team.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, speculated last week that Newey's departure might be just "the first domino to fall". "My guess is it's not the last, based on the resumes that are flying around," he further noted.
Oliver Mintzlaff, appointed as one of the CEOs following Dietrich Mateschitz's passing, acknowledged the impact of the internal disruptions at Red Bull. "I don't want to argue with the fact that we need more peace and quiet," he admitted to Sky Deutschland. "But I think we're getting there step by step."
"So it is more speculation that arises, because there was a certain amount of unrest in our team, absolutely, and there are teams that are behind us."
Mintzlaff also minimized the impact of Newey's upcoming exit. "We will remain closely connected," he stated, despite Red Bull's announcement that Newey will depart by early 2025.
"It's not as if Adrian is just disappearing," Mintzlaff explained. "He's here (in Miami) and he will be at other races too. We're working together on the RB17 - the hypercar he's developing."
"So it's certainly a bit of a farewell to Formula 1, but it's not as if we've parted ways on bad terms. We have projects and who knows what the future will bring."
The German executive noted that the departure of prominent team members "Is what happens naturally when you're successful."
"We know that from other sports too - people look at you and the staff you have."
There is ongoing speculation that Red Bull might soon see Pierre Wache, the technical director, leave as well, although Italian media have reported that he has just now committed to the team until 2028.
