Red Bull Racing’s future is under scrutiny as former 1997 champion Jacques Villeneuve declares the team has “lost its sparkle” after a string of high‑profile departures.
Internal Turmoil at Red Bull
Villeneuve criticized the management’s turnover, describing it as “very political” and noting the repeated ousting of key figures such as Christian Horner, Jonathan Wheatley, Helmut Marko and Adrian Newey.
He added that the loss of these architects “has destroyed the team’s identity,” leaving only Max Verstappen and the engines as the visible positives.
Impact on Max and Engineering
Villeneuve warned the team must “find a way to keep Max.” He praised the power unit’s performance, describing the ICE as “very good,” but expressed concern that Verstappen is now the sole catalyst capable of driving the car hard.
He pointed out that Verstappen is “not a car designer” and that the absence of a supporting technical crew hampers development, especially since Helmut Marko—a former chief designer—has also been sidelined.
Future Outlook for the Squad
Red Bull currently sits fourth in the constructors’ standings. Villeneuve suggested rebuilding would require settling the political rifts before any competitiveness can return.
Photo by: Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images
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