Horner praises outgoing Marshall: 'We're going to miss his influence'

For as many as 17 years, Rob Marshall was one of the most important people in Red Bull Racing's team, but the chief engineering officer is leaving with immediate effect. He will join McLaren. Christian Horner, Red Bull team boss, praises Marshall for his contribution to the team over the years.

Marshall will join McLaren as Technical Director, Engineering & Design, or head of design. The Briton previously held this position at Red Bull. In a press release, the team of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez stated that Marshall was instrumental in Red Bull's first biggest successes as chief designer. Following sweeping regulatory changes in F1, Rob's work on the RB5 helped the team to its first Grand Prix victories in 2009. He then played a key role during the team's first period of dominance, with four consecutive driver and constructor championships from 2010 to 2013.

'Excellent work'

In 2016, after 10 years as chief designer, Marshall took on a broader role within the organisation. He was given the newly created position of Chief Engineering Officer. Most recently, he worked on the Red Bull Powertrains, the in-house developed power united that Red Bull will race with from 2026.

Christian Horner commented on the news in a press release from his team: "We would like to thank Rob for everything he has done for the Team over the past 17 years. His work on the generation of cars that gave us four incredible championship doubles between 2010 and 2013 was truly outstanding. In the years since he has continued to be a key figure at the Team and in 2016 took on the broader role of Chief Engineering Officer which has seen him involved in other projects across the business. His influence will be missed but once again we thank him for all he has done and wish him the very best in his new role."