McLaren have recruited Will Courtenay from Red Bull to become their F1 Sporting Director.
Courtenay had been part of Red Bull for 20 years and most recently was their Head of Race Strategy, but has decided to leave to take up a new position at McLaren where he will be their Sporting Director.
Under his new role, Courtenay will report to Racing Director, Randeep Singh, with view to growing the sporting operations of the team, as McLaren chase a first constructors’ title since 1998.
McLaren Team Principal, Andrea Stella issued a statement welcoming Courtenay, who he believes can help the constructor continue to fight for victories and end their title droughts.
“We are delighted to welcome Will to McLaren. His experience, professionalism and passion for motorsport make him the ideal candidate to lead our F1 sporting function.
“We are now entering a key phase in our journey as a team, and we are confident that he will be a great addition to our strong leadership team as we strive to continue challenging for wins and championships.”
Red Bull though have iterated that Courtenay won’t be leaving imminently, as he “continues to be part of their team seeing out his contract until mid-2026”.
The reigning constructors’ champions though wish him well for when he takes up his role at McLaren.
“After a long and successful service, being with the team since the Jaguar days, we are sad to see him go but wish him all the best in this step up.”
McLaren currently hold a 41-point lead over Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship, whilst Lando Norris is 52 points behind Max Verstappen in the drivers’ standings.
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