Courtenay has joined McLaren after more than 20 years at Red Bull

Will Courtenay Joins McLaren as Sporting Director After Red Bull Exit

Will Courtenay, Red Bull Racing’s long-time head of strategy, has officially joined McLaren as sporting director, marking one of the most high-profile technical transfers ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Courtenay started his new role on 2 January 2026, according to a McLaren team spokesperson. He will now report directly to racing director Randy Singh.

A Strategic Shift After Red Bull Shake-up

Courtenay originally signed with McLaren back in September 2024, but his contract obligations with Red Bull extended well into 2026. That situation changed after Red Bull’s major leadership overhaul, including the dismissal of team principal Christian Horner in July 2025.

This shift prompted renewed negotiations between McLaren and Red Bull, eventually resulting in an early release agreement allowing Courtenay to start with McLaren at the beginning of the new year.

Courtenay’s Message and Red Bull Succession

In a LinkedIn post, Courtenay expressed gratitude to his Red Bull colleagues:

“It was an incredible two and a bit decades. I made so many great friends there… but now I’m looking forward to settling into my new role and helping McLaren continue its recent success.”

With Courtenay’s departure, Red Bull is expected to promote Hannah Schmitz — principal strategy engineer and his longtime collaborator — to lead the team’s strategic operations.

Schmitz has been instrumental in Red Bull’s success over the past 15 years and is widely respected for her cool-headed decision-making under pressure.

Looking Ahead: McLaren’s Strategy Ambitions

Courtenay’s arrival is seen as a major coup for McLaren, who have made substantial gains over the past two seasons and are now eyeing consistent podium finishes.

With 2026 marking significant technical regulation changes, including chassis and engine overhauls, Courtenay’s experience will be crucial as McLaren navigates an evolving grid.