Ralf Schumacher predicts Red Bull's demise due to Horner's grip on power

According to Ralf Schumacher, the sole reason behind Red Bull's current troubles lies with team principal Christian Horner.

Schumacher believes Horner's iron grip on power has created an atmosphere of discord within the team, jeopardizing its stability and future success.

"The sole responsibility for this lies with Christian Horner, who is holding on to power with all his might,"

Schumacher stated in an interview with Sky Sport News.

Adrian Newey's uncertain future

At the heart of Red Bull's predicament is the uncertainty surrounding the future of chief technical officer Adrian Newey.

Newey, the mastermind behind Red Bull's championship-winning cars, has been rumored to be eyeing an exit from the team, despite being under contract until the end of 2025.

"Adrian Newey needs harmony, he needs a good atmosphere, a good workplace"

Schumacher remarked, implying that the current environment at Red Bull may not be conducive to retaining Newey's services.

Potential consequences

Schumacher painted a bleak picture of Red Bull's prospects should Newey depart, citing the team's struggles during Newey's brief absence last year due to illness.

"If he wants to continue, he has to be free. Otherwise, of course, he will still be blocked and won't be able to work for a new team,"

Schumacher added, referring to Newey's contractual obligations.

"I give Red Bull two more years and if they continue to hold on to Horner, the team will sink into mediocrity. I'm pretty sure of that,"

Schumacher ominously predicted.

Implications for Red Bull's future

Newey's potential departure could deal a significant blow to Red Bull's technical department, potentially jeopardizing their ability to maintain their position at the forefront of Formula 1.

Furthermore, Schumacher's comments suggest that the team's internal dynamics may be causing concern among key personnel, including Max Verstappen and Dr. Helmut Marko.