Restrictive F1 rules fuelled Adrian Newey's decision to step down

The design genius, who helped turn Red Bull in to a dominant force in F1, is to begin working on side projects for the energy drinks company later this year alongside an advisory position for its grand prix team.

And although Red Bull won its first grand prix of the season in Canada, and has been champion for the past four years, Newey says that his passion has been dampened by the way the rules do not allow creative freedom.

"I just feel, to be perfectly honest, the current regulations are very restrictive, which is a shame," he said.

"It's difficult to find new areas to explore because they are so tight.

"At the same time, I'd like to see if I can apply my ability - whatever that might be - to other areas.

"I'll be fully involved with the team over the next few months.

"During that time we will look at how the engineering structure will run in the future, and then once I get fully into the new projects, I will step back and take on much more of an advisory role and, if you like, mentoring some of my colleague engineers.

"If they have questions or would like my advice then I'll be available to give that."

Although it is understood Ferrari contacted Newey to find out if he was interested in a switch, even though no formal offer was made, he has made it clear that he never properly considered leaving his current team.

"There has been a lot said about Ferrari," he said. "The bottom line is I've been with Red Bull more or less right from the start, very centrally involved in the team and how it has developed.

"So to walk away from that would feel a little like walking out on your wife."

F1 COMEBACK POSSIBLE

But Newey has said that if F1's rules change and can excite him, then returning to a full-time role is not out of the question.

"It's quite possible," he said. "I've come to the stage in my career where I'd quite like to try other challenges, whatever they may be, and try my hand at different things.

"It's fresh stimulation, but all these things are transient.

"I'm 55 and not ready for the beach just yet. I'll do this for a little bit and see what happens after that."