Horner's new book prompts Adrian Newey to reveal where they currently stand

Released yesterday, Horner's new book, Drive, looks back on his two decades in charge of Red Bull Racing, covering the team's rise to the top of Formula 1, its successes, relationships with key figures in the paddock and the circumstances surrounding his departure in 2025. The former team principal also reflects on the challenges he faced both on and off the track throughout his career.

Speaking during the FIA team principals' press conference ahead of the United States Grand Prix in Austin, the Aston Martin designer was asked about comments made by Horner in his recently released memoir. The former Red Bull team principal reflected on their years working together, paying tribute to Newey's contribution to the team's achievements while also offering his perspective on some of the more difficult moments in their relationship.

In particular, Horner suggested that Newey considered leaving Red Bull when the team encountered difficulties following the introduction of Formula 1's hybrid power units in 2014. He also described being caught off guard by the engineer's eventual decision to join Aston Martin, bringing an end to a partnership that lasted almost two decades.

Newey was asked whether Horner informed him beforehand about the passages concerning him, whether he felt disappointed by those remarks and what kind of relationship the pair maintain today.

The British engineer admitted that he was yet to read the book but took the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding Red Bull's difficulties in 2014, particularly the problems with Renault's power unit.

Newey's concerns centred on the lack of progress he perceived from Red Bull's engine supplier rather than simply the team's struggles during the 2014 season. According to the British designer, the situation continued for several years, with the eventual switch to Honda in 2019 marking the end of that particular period.

The comments offered an insight into the difficulties Newey experienced during a period in which Red Bull struggled to replicate the success it enjoyed with Sebastian Vettel, who led the team to four consecutive world titles between 2010 and 2013, before the introduction of the hybrid regulations.

However, when the discussion turned to his relationship with Horner, Newey made clear that the two remain on good terms despite their respective departures from Red Bull. He also pointed to their personal connection outside Formula 1, revealing that he remains godfather to Horner's daughter.