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Red Bull had its eye on new acquisition Aston Martin

Red Bull also had eye on new Aston Martin acquisition: 'Different choice made'

9 July at 16:00
Last update 9 July at 16:01
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  • Nicole Mulder

Aston Martin has announced the arrival of Enrico Cardile, the technical head who left Ferrari with immediate effect. A week earlier, it was announced that Andy Cowell, former head of the engine department at Mercedes, will also join the Formula 1 team at Silverstone. Christian Horner admits that Red Bull Racing was also interested in Cowell.

Red Bull interested in new Aston Martin acquisition

"Andy is a great guy. He's a very strong engineer. He did a great job at HPP (Mercedes High Performance Powertrains, ed.) He was the main backbone behind that project," Horner told several media outlets including GPblog. The Red Bull team boss admits that there was also interest from Red Bull Powertrains, but a different choice was made when it appeared Cowell was due for a break.

"He elected to leave Mercedes and spent some time outside of Formula One and of course, I think every single engine manufacturer spoke with him during that period. After he decided he wanted to take time out, we made alternative plans. We're happy, very happy with those plans. But he's taken on a role that is not engine-related within Aston Martin," Horner said.

Cowell was head of Mercedes' engine department for a long time, helping to win no fewer than eight constructors' titles. Cowell left the team in 2021 and was recently appointed CEO by Aston Martin.

This article was written in collaboration with Sophia Crothall.