Last Updated on April 6 2026, 1:04 pm
One of Red Bull’s most loyal figures is preparing to leave at a time when the team is already under intense pressure, both on and off the track. His departure is not just the end of his remarkable personal journey, but also reflects instability within the organisation.
For a team built on continuity and long-term success, losing such a central figure raises uncomfortable questions, particularly amid growing uncertainty around Max Verstappen’s future.
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The end of an unbroken record
Schack’s exit, something TJ13 reported on some weeks ago ahead of the mainstream media, brings to a close one of the most extraordinary records in Formula 1. Since the 2005 Australian Grand Prix, he has not missed a single race weekend — a streak stretching back to the team’s origins following its transformation from Jaguar to Red Bull Racing.
Over the course of two decades, he became one of the most experienced and respected mechanics in the paddock. Initially working closely with Sebastian Vettel during the team’s first dominant era, he later transitioned into the role of front-end mechanic on Verstappen’s car, placing him at the heart of Red Bull’s second golden period.
His contribution was not just technical, but also symbolic. He represented the culture of commitment that underpinned Red Bull’s rise to the top of Formula 1.
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Loyalty beyond the job
Few moments captured that dedication better than the 2012 Singapore Grand Prix. Despite having lost his father earlier that season, Schack continued his unbroken attendance record.
In recognition of his commitment, he was chosen to accept the constructors’ trophy on behalf of the team. This gesture highlighted the deep bond between Schack and Red Bull, as well as the respect he commanded internally.
This makes his decision to leave all the more significant. This is not a routine departure, but the exit of someone who has embodied the team’s identity for almost 20 years.
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A team transformed
Much has changed at Red Bull in a relatively short space of time. Christian Horner’s departure in July 2025 marked a turning point, effectively ending an era shaped by him and founder Dietrich Mateschitz.
In the aftermath, a new leadership structure emerged. Laurent Mekies took on a leading role, reporting to Oliver Mintzlaff, and together they began reshaping the organisation.
One of the most notable consequences was the departure of Helmut Marko, a key figure for over two decades. His departure alone signalled a decisive break from the past, but this was just the beginning.
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A wave of departures followed
Schack’s decision comes amid a broader exodus of personnel across multiple levels of the team. Chief designer Craig Skinner stepped down, while mechanic Matt Caller left to join Audi. His brother, Jon Caller, who had taken on responsibility for Verstappen’s car, also chose to leave.
The changes have not been limited to trackside roles. Several administrative figures, including Joanna Fleet, Julia George, Simon Smith-Wright and Alice Hedworth, left in quick succession earlier this year.
Taken together, these moves point to a significant internal restructuring. More importantly, they suggest a shift in atmosphere that has not been universally welcomed.
Changing atmosphere and falling morale
For Schack, the decision appears to be largely driven by this evolving environment. After years of stability, the internal culture he knew no longer exists. This change has reportedly impacted his motivation, ultimately pushing him to seek a new challenge.
His desire to shorten his notice period further underlines the finality of his decision.
Meanwhile, Red Bull’s struggles on the track have only intensified the situation. After three race weekends in 2026, the team has amassed only 16 points and is battling in the midfield rather than at the front.
There have been retirements and a lack of consistent points finishes, and Verstappen has not made it onto the podium. For a team accustomed to dominance, the drop in performance has been stark.
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Pressure is building around Verstappen
The combination of declining results and internal upheaval is beginning to take its toll. Morale within the factory is reportedly slipping, and there is growing uncertainty about the team’s direction.
During the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, rookie driver Isack Hadjar offered a candid assessment, admitting: “It is not good.”
He added that the team is working hard to understand the issues: “Everyone is keeping their heads down to figure out what’s going on. Hopefully, the next version of the car will really make a difference.”
These comments reflect a team that is searching for answers but lacking its usual confidence.
Schack’s departure feels like more than just the loss of a veteran mechanic. It signals that Red Bull is entering a period of transition that could have significant implications for Verstappen, who is considering his own future within a team that is no longer defined by the stability that once made it so formidable.
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One thing was crystal clear at the recent 2026 Formula One Japanese Grand Prix, and that is Max Verstappen is a very unhappy man. In the FIA press conference he banished a journalist from The Guardian, refusing to answer questions until the offending pork pie hat had left the room.
Verstappen claims Giles Richards had ‘laughed in his face’ following the season finale in Abu Dhabi last season. Having fallen short by just 14 points of becoming only the second F1 driver to claim five consecutive titles, Richards reminded Max of his red mist in Spain where he appeared to ram the Mercedes of George Russell.
The resulting 10 second penalty issued by the race stewards probably cost Verstappen in the region of 9 points that day, so it was not a deciding incident for his season anyway. Red Bull team boss Laurent Mekies is reported to have had words with his star driver following corporate pressure from Austria over the image he was portraying of the Red Bull brand.
Max reprimanded for dismissing journalists
Thats in itself is a bizarre tale, given that Red Bull energy drinks brand, the extreme sports they have supported and the rebellious attitude of the Red Bull F1 team have always been associated with kicking over the traces. How times have changed since the death of Red Bull founder Didi Mateschitz. But we digress.
As if to make matters worse, Vertsappen had his worst racing weekend of the season. He was out qualified for the second time by new team mate Isack Hadjar and dumped out of the top ten shootout by rookie Arvid Lindblad in the Red Bull sister car. The RB22 car was “undriveable” repeated Max throughout the…CONTINUE READING THIS ARTICLE
A senior writer at TJ13, C.J. Alderson serves as Senior Editor and newsroom coordinator, with a background in online sports reporting and motorsport magazine editing. Alderson’s professional training in media studies and experience managing content teams ensures TJ13 maintains consistency of voice and credibility. During race weekends, Alderson acts as desk lead, directing contributors and smoothing breaking stories for publication.
