The McLaren Formula 1 team has made a significant announcement, revealing that Will Courtenay, Red Bull’s chief strategist, will be joining their team as the new sporting director. This move marks a major shift for Courtenay, who has been an integral part of the Red Bull team for the past two decades.
Courtenay’s journey with Red Bull began in 2003 when he joined the team as a systems engineer during its Jaguar days. Over the years, he transitioned into a strategy role, becoming the head of race strategy for the world champion squad in 2005. His expertise and strategic acumen have played a crucial role in Red Bull’s success on the track, making him a highly sought-after figure in the world of Formula 1.
McLaren’s decision to bring Courtenay on board as their sporting director is a strategic move aimed at strengthening their on-track racing operations. Courtenay will be reporting to McLaren’s long-time racing director, Randeep Singh, as the team looks to continue challenging for wins and championships in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Andrea Stella, McLaren’s team principal, expressed his excitement about Courtenay’s appointment, highlighting his experience, professionalism, and passion for motorsport as key attributes that make him the ideal candidate for the role. As McLaren enters a crucial phase in their journey as a team, Courtenay’s addition to their leadership team is expected to bring a fresh perspective and valuable insights to the table.
While the exact timeline of Courtenay’s transition to McLaren is still unclear, as he is contracted to Red Bull until mid-2026, negotiations between the two teams are likely underway to secure his early release. Red Bull’s spokesperson confirmed Courtenay’s new role as Sporting Director and acknowledged his long and successful tenure with the team, dating back to the Jaguar days. Despite the bittersweet nature of his departure, Red Bull wishes him all the best in his new endeavor.
Courtenay’s move to McLaren is part of a larger trend of senior staff members leaving Red Bull, with design guru Adrian Newey already making the switch to Aston Martin in March 2025. Additionally, sporting manager Jonathan Wheatley is set to take on the role of team principal at Sauber starting next season, signaling a period of transition and change within the Red Bull team.
Overall, Courtenay’s appointment at McLaren signifies a new chapter for both him and the team, as they gear up to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the fast-paced world of Formula 1. With his wealth of experience and strategic prowess, Courtenay is poised to make a significant impact on McLaren’s racing operations and contribute to their pursuit of success on the track.
