Last Updated on April 15 2026, 2:46 pm
“This is causing real headaches.” claims Former Red Bull chief mechanic – The ongoing upheaval at Red Bull Racing shows no signs of slowing down, and concern is growing both within and outside the team. What initially seemed like a series of isolated departures is now being seen as part of a wider structural shake-up that could have long-lasting consequences for the Formula 1 powerhouse.
Former Red Bull chief mechanic Kenny Handkammer has added to these concerns by warning that the situation could deteriorate further. Speaking on The Two Mechanics podcast, he suggested that even more key figures could be on their way out, describing the situation as deeply troubling.
“There are reports that Hannah Schmitz will also be leaving,” he said. “All these key personnel and discussions about more departures to follow. It’s really worrying. How do you rebuild the team?”
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Red Bull’s growing list of departures
Over the past year, Red Bull has seen an extraordinary number of high-profile exits. The departing figures include some of the most influential people behind the team’s recent success, raising serious questions about continuity and stability.
The biggest names to leave or prepare to leave include Christian Horner, Helmut Marko, Adrian Newey and Will Courtenay. Each of them played a crucial role in establishing Red Bull as one of the most successful teams in modern Formula 1. Their departures alone would represent a significant period of transition, but the changes have not stopped there.
Race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase is also set to leave, having confirmed his move to McLaren for 2028. His close working relationship with Max Verstappen made him a central figure in Red Bull’s trackside operations, so his departure will leave another significant void.
Taken together, the scale of these changes has led many to describe the situation as unprecedented in the team’s history.
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Is Hannah Schmitz next?
Attention is now turning to chief strategist Hannah Schmitz, who is widely regarded as one of the sharpest tactical minds on the Formula 1 grid. Schmitz has played a key role in several of Red Bull’s most decisive race victories, frequently making bold decisions under pressure that have paid off.
However, recent reports suggest that Ferrari may be interested in recruiting her, sparking speculation that she could be the next high-profile name to leave Milton Keynes. While nothing has been confirmed, the mere possibility has added to the sense of uncertainty surrounding the team.
Handkammer’s comments reflect a growing fear that Red Bull could lose not just individuals, but also the collective expertise that underpinned its success.
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Rebuilding a dynasty?
The key question now is how Red Bull can recover from such an extensive internal shake-up. Formula 1 success rarely hinges on a single individual; rather, it is built on a complex network of specialists working in harmony. Losing multiple senior figures in a short period risks disrupting that balance.
While replacements can be found, rebuilding chemistry, trust and institutional knowledge takes time, something in short supply in the relentless world of Formula 1.
If further departures materialise, particularly of someone as influential as Schmitz, the challenge will only intensify. What was once a stable and dominant operation is now facing a period of uncertainty that could redefine its competitive future.
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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.
