Rumored to be nearing a deal with Ferrari, Newey’s departure is potentially a fatal blow to Red Bull’s dominance. There’s a reason why Newey is known as a mastermind.

The effects appear to be immediate.

McLaren’s recently updated aero package has produced a car that outpaces Red Bull.

Lando Norris scored the first victory of his career at the Miami Grand Prix and Max Verstappen had to hold him off in the final laps of Imola Grand Prix the following race.

Ferrari then scored a win at Monaco two weeks ago.

Now, some are saying Red Bull could struggle at the Canadian Grand Prix this weekend. There’s a reason why Newey is known as a mastermind. There is no Red Bull without him.

So, what does it mean?

It means that the “old” style of Formula 1 races—where you aren’t sure who is going to win and there are legitimate battles for 1st Place—is back.

Television Schedule for Canadian Grand Prix

Time: Sunday, 11:00 am PT
Network: ABC

Constructor Standings

Red Bull – 276 Points
Ferrari – 252 Points
McLaren – 184 Points

Driver Standings

Max Verstappen – 169 Points
Charles Leclerc – 138 Points
Lando Norris – 113 Points