P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull boss admits ‘open secret’ of distractions at F1 team
Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff has acknowledged the internal challenges the team faced over the past two years, leading to the departure of key figures and serving as a major distraction.
Departures such as Adrian Newey, Christian Horner, and Helmut Marko disrupted the team’s stability, especially ahead of crucial stages like car design for the 2026 regulation changes.
This tumultuous period created an atmosphere akin to a circus within the team, prompting even Max Verstappen to contemplate his future amidst the crumbling management structure.
Mintzlaff highlighted the detrimental impact of distractions on performance, emphasizing the need for a focused and united team to achieve success in Formula 1.
Despite the setbacks, a resurgence in performance post-Horner era showcased the team’s ability to refocus and nearly secure a championship victory with Verstappen’s stellar efforts.
The recent improvement in performance signals a positive shift within the Red Bull team, demonstrating that cohesion and dedication can overcome challenges and propel them towards success in the upcoming seasons.
