Red Bull is set to lose its long-standing chief engineer Paul Monaghan, adding to a growing exodus of senior personnel that could impact Max Verstappen's future with the team. The 58-year-old, who has spent two decades overseeing Red Bull's engineering divisions, is expected to join Formula 1's newest entrant, Cadillac, according to RacingNews365.
Monaghan's Departure and New Role
Monaghan has attracted multiple approaches from teams eager to capitalise on his extensive experience. He reportedly entertained an offer from Aston Martin, where he could have re-joined long-standing colleague Adrian Newey, but instead opted for a proposal from Cadillac. Neither Red Bull nor Cadillac provided comment, but it is understood that Monaghan has notified Red Bull of his intention to leave. A spell of gardening leave means he is unlikely to commence his new role until next season at the earliest.
Legacy at Red Bull
Monaghan joined Red Bull in 2005 from Jordan Grand Prix after the team acquired Jaguar. As chief engineer, he presided over the design and evolution of eight championship-winning machines, contributing to eight drivers' and six constructors' title triumphs. Nicknamed 'Pedals,' he is a well-liked and crucial figure at Milton Keynes due to his expertise and track record.
Exodus of Senior Personnel
Monaghan's exit is deeply felt given numerous other senior personnel have already moved on. Adrian Newey agreed to switch to Aston Martin in 2024, while team principal Christian Horner was dismissed last year. Rob Marshall left for McLaren, followed by head of race strategy Will Courtenay. Max Verstappen's race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will also join McLaren in 2028. The sheer volume of departures creates a feeling of a changing of the guard at Red Bull.
Impact on Max Verstappen
As Monaghan adds his name to the roster of departures, it represents one fewer recognisable face for Verstappen in the Red Bull garage. Team principal Laurent Mekies will be hoping Verstappen does not form part of the exodus. The Dutchman is contracted until 2028 but possesses a clause to depart, which he can trigger between August and October this year. While he has indicated a wish to finish his career with Red Bull, he has not yet pledged his future beyond this season and is understood to have pointedly refused to do so during a recent discussion with Red Bull's Austrian leadership.
