Adrian Newey hails 'special moment' after driving Red Bull RB17 at Goodwood

Adrian Newey drove the Red Bull RB17 at Goodwood for its debut, a poignant moment in his final chapter before joining Aston Martin. The RB17, an F1-inspired two-seater, is his parting gift to Red Bull Advanced Technologies and a rare look at his engineering without racing restrictions.

Why it matters:

The RB17 is more than a vanity project. With just 50 units priced above six million euros, it signals Red Bull's technical ambition and Newey's lasting influence. It also bridges his Red Bull legacy with his Aston Martin future, underscoring why rivals covet his genius.

The details:

• Extreme spec: A 4.5-litre Cosworth V10 hybrid produces 1,200hp in a carbon monocoque under 900 kg.
• Banned tech: Active suspension and ground effect—both banned in F1—generate 1,700 kg of downforce, with simulations suggesting F1-level lap times at Silverstone.
• Ownership: Buyers get a track and simulator programme to master the car, packaging F1 pedigree in road-legal form.

Looking ahead:

Newey's run was just the beginning for 50 owners and the team left behind. As production nears, the RB17 shows what F1 engineering can achieve freed from the rulebook—though whether Red Bull Advanced Technologies can match this without its legendary designer remains uncertain.