Red Bull lost a mastermind and McLaren just gained a major edge

January 6, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

A strategic move as the rules reset

McLaren has confirmed that Will Courtenay has started work as the team’s new Sporting Director, well ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 regulation overhaul. According to McLaren Racing, the appointment is part of a broader effort to reinforce the team’s senior management during a crucial transitional period for the sport.

Courtenay’s arrival comes earlier than originally planned, following an agreement with Red Bull that allowed him to leave before the end of his contract. The decision places him at the Woking-based team during preparations that are already shaping the next competitive cycle in Formula 1.

From Jaguar roots to Red Bull dominance

Courtenay’s Formula 1 career has been closely tied to the Milton Keynes organisation since 2005, when Red Bull entered the sport after taking over Jaguar Racing. Over time, he became one of the most influential figures on the pit wall, ultimately serving as Head of Race Strategy.

According to Red Bull Racing, Courtenay played a central role in race operations across multiple championship campaigns, contributing to the team’s reputation for sharp tactical calls and operational consistency. His long tenure made him one of the most experienced strategists in the paddock.

Why McLaren targeted Courtenay early

McLaren publicly announced Courtenay’s appointment in September 2024, describing him as a key figure in strengthening the team’s sporting operations. Team Principal Andrea Stella said the team viewed the hire as a strategic investment rather than a short-term change.

According to a McLaren team statement issued at the time, Stella highlighted Courtenay’s leadership background and decision-making experience as essential qualities as McLaren pushes to remain competitive at the front of the grid.

Red Bull had initially indicated Courtenay would stay through mid-2026, but both teams later agreed to bring his departure forward, allowing him to begin work at McLaren at the start of this year.

Closing a long chapter at Red Bull

Courtenay confirmed his departure in a post on LinkedIn, reflecting on his time with Red Bull and outlining his motivation for the move. According to Courtenay, the decision followed more than two decades with the same organisation and a desire to take on a new professional challenge.

He thanked former colleagues for their support and described his years at Red Bull as defining both professionally and personally, while also expressing enthusiasm about contributing to McLaren’s recent upward momentum.

Familiar faces and future influence

At McLaren, Courtenay will work alongside Rob Marshall, another former Red Bull engineer who joined the team as design chief in 2024. According to McLaren Racing, the pairing is expected to strengthen coordination between technical development and race operations.

While Courtenay’s role will largely unfold behind the scenes, his influence is likely to be felt as teams adapt to new technical rules and competitive dynamics. His early arrival gives McLaren additional time to align strategy, personnel, and processes ahead of one of Formula 1’s most significant resets in years.

Sources, McLaren Racing, Red Bull Racing, LinkedIn

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