Mercedes has been one of the dominant forces in Formula 1 for the past decade, winning seven consecutive Constructors' Championships from 2014 to 2020. However, they faced a tough challenge from Red Bull Racing last season, who clinched both titles. As a result, it's not surprising that Mercedes was looking for ways to strengthen their team, and one of their targets was Adrian Newey.
Newey is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant minds in motorsport history. He has been responsible for designing some of the most successful cars in F1 history, including the McLaren MP4/13 and the Red Bull RB6. He joined Red Bull in 2006 and has led the team to four Drivers' and Constructors' Championships since then.
However, his contract with Red Bull was due to expire at the end of 2021, and there were rumours that he might be tempted to join Mercedes. According to Helmut Marko, Mercedes made an offer to Newey, but he turned it down and decided to stay with Red Bull.
"It seems Wolff has no confidence that his own people can solve the problems with the Mercedes"
Marko said in an interview with F1-Insider.
Marko's comments suggest that Mercedes is struggling with technical issues that they cannot resolve internally. This is not surprising given the sweeping changes that F1 has undergone in recent years. The sport has introduced new aerodynamic rules designed to reduce downforce and increase overtaking opportunities. These changes have made it harder for teams to design cars that are both fast and reliable.
Mercedes has been struggling with these changes more than most. Their car has often been quick in qualifying but has struggled in races, particularly when it comes to tire management. This has cost them several victories this season, and they currently trail Red Bull in both championships.
It's unclear what Adrian Newey could have brought to Mercedes if he had joined them. While he is undoubtedly a brilliant designer, he is also notoriously difficult to work with. He is said to be demanding and uncompromising, and he has clashed with team bosses in the past.
Moreover, Mercedes already has a formidable technical team led by James Allison, who is regarded as one of the best technical directors in F1. Allison joined Mercedes from Ferrari in 2017 and has overseen the team's success since then.
However, there is no doubt that Newey's presence at Red Bull has been a significant factor in their success. He has created a culture of innovation and excellence that has made Red Bull one of the most successful teams of the past decade. His decision to stay with Red Bull is a huge boost for the team, who will be looking to build on their success this season.
In the same interview, Marko also commented on rumours that Ferrari was looking to poach one of their technical staff. He dismissed suggestions that Pierre Wache, Red Bull's technical director, might be leaving for Ferrari.
"We like to see Ferrari competitive, but it doesn't work that way"
Marko said.
"We are not at a bazaar. Moreover, Wache does not want to change teams, and we would not agree to it"
Wache joined Red Bull in 2013 and has played a key role in their success since then. He oversaw the design of the RB16B, which has been one of the fastest cars on the grid this season. His decision to stay with Red Bull is another sign that the team is building for the future.
In conclusion, Mercedes' failed attempt to sign Adrian Newey is a reminder of how important technical staff are in Formula 1. While drivers often get the most attention, it is the designers and engineers who create the cars that win races. Newey's decision to stay with Red Bull is a major boost for the team, who will be looking to build on their success this season. As for Mercedes, they will need to find other ways to solve their technical issues if they want to challenge Red Bull for the championship.
