Adrian Newey, the designer who joined Red Bull Racing in 2006 and became a pivotal figure, will join Aston Martin after having signed an agreement with the latter on Sunday, sources informed.

Though official announcements from Newey and Aston Martin are yet to come in, the F1 paddock is amok with murmurs about the deal. Newey, Red Bull's Chief Technical Officer Newey, had in May announced his decision to step down from his role early next year. 

Newey's move to Aston Martin will enable him to contribute to the development of their 2026 car, coinciding with the next significant regulatory changes.

In an interview with Eddie Jordan, posted on YouTube, the 65-year-old Newey had reflected on his illustrious career, saying, "I've been fortunate enough to fulfill my childhood dream of working in motor racing as a designer. I've loved every moment of it, but I'm feeling a bit tired now. I'll take a break, but I'm sure I'll be back in the game soon."

Newey's tenure at Red Bull, which began in 2006, has been marked by remarkable success, including seven drivers' titles and six constructors' titles. 

His departure came amidst controversy surrounding team principal Christian Horner, who was accused of "inappropriate behaviour" by a female employee. However, Horner was cleared of any wrongdoing by Red Bull's parent company, GmbH, and has consistently denied the allegations.

Yet another Jolt For Red Bull Racing

Earlier today, Red Bull Racing received yet another jolt when Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley announced that he will leave his role as sporting director of Red Bull to become team principal of the Audi Formula 1 team. Wheatley is the second key figure to be leaving ahead of F1's rule changes in 2026. 

57-year-old Wheatley has been with Red Bull for 18 years. The team said on Thursday he'll finish out this season before sitting out 2025. He'll than take over Audi when it begins racing in 2026.

"I am extremely proud to have been a part of the Red Bull Racing journey," Wheatley said. “However, the opportunity to play an active part in Audi’s entry into Formula 1 as head of a factory team is a uniquely exciting prospect, and I am looking forward to the challenge."

Wheatley will work alongside former Ferrari team principal Matteo Binotto, who was recently hired by Audi to lead its F1 project.

"I have known Jonathan for many years and rate him highly as an experienced and committed motorsport expert," Binotto said. "I am looking forward to setting up the new racing team for Audi along with Jonathan and leading it to success."