Adrian Newey picks a Ferrari at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

Speculation has been rife across the paddock as to Adrian Newey’s next destination in F1. Ever since it was announced he would be leaving Red Bull in early 2025, rumours have been circulating as to where he might go next. A move to Ferrari? A storied return to Williams or McLaren? Or perhaps a move to Aston Martin?

But on Saturday morning, the legendary designer and engineer made his preference clear.

Ferrari.

Specifically, the Ferrari 312T once driven by legendary driver Niki Lauda. As part of the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed, Newey got to hop in Lauda’s 312T and race it up the hill.

Ferrari’s 312T series, available in eight variations, was one of the most successful cars in F1 history. Ferrari won four constructors’ championships and three drivers’ championships with the eight versions of the car. Lauda won two titles, in 1975 and 1977, and Jody Scheckter won another in 1979.

“It’s going to be really special to drive Niki’s old car, the championship-winning car.” The legendary designer said“I knew Niki really well so it’s really special to sit here and think about what he’s been through and how he prepares before the start.

“This is truly a wonderful thing and a very fitting tribute to him,” Newey said. Added“The cars are really different. I love these cars. The 1967, 1968 Lotus 49 was the first car I started looking at, and when I got to this car, I was 15 years old, and I actually drew a picture of it for my art project.”

Lauda’s 312T hurtling up the hills won’t be the only highlight of Newey’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. The legendary designer also unveiled his passion project, the RB17 hypercar on Friday. Only 50 of the car will be made, and Red Bull says the RB17 will offer owners “F1-equivalent” speed.

So now we have pictures of Newey in a Ferrari, do they hint at his next F1 destination, or is he destined to become a footnote in the debate?