Red Bull chief designer Craig Skinner leaves ahead of new F1 season

Red Bull chief designer Craig Skinner is to leave the Formula 1 team ahead of the new season, ending a 20-year association with the Milton Keynes outfit.

Skinner, who joined the constructors as a CFD engineer in 2006, has been a pivotal figure in the team’s technical department.

His departure comes as a significant disruption as Max Verstappen prepares for the season opener in Australia in March.

A key departure

The University of Glasgow graduate rose through the ranks to become chief designer, playing a crucial role in the cars that delivered multiple championships.

Skinner’s exit was confirmed via a brief statement from the team.

“Craig has been an integral part of our team and its success, and we would like to thank him for his hard work and commitment.”

A Red Bull statement read

The message concluded that the “whole team wishes him all the best for the future”.

Restructuring continues

This latest exit adds to a period of significant personnel changes for the former world champions.

Laurent Mekies has recently taken charge of the organisation following the departure of long-serving team principal Christian Horner.

Motorsport advisor Helmut Marko also left the set-up at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign.

Verstappen seeking redemption

Verstappen is looking to bounce back after narrowly missing out on a fifth world title last season.

The Dutchman was beaten by just two points by McLaren’s Lando Norris in a thrilling 2025 championship battle.

While Verstappen secured eight race victories to Norris’ seven, the Briton’s consistency with 18 podiums proved decisive.

Red Bull finished third in the constructors’ standings, trailing both champions McLaren and runners-up Mercedes.

There are changes in the cockpit for 2026, with Isack Hadjar stepping up from the Racing Bulls to partner Verstappen.

Yuki Tsunoda has been moved to a reserve and testing role after finishing 17th in the drivers’ standings last year.