Red Bull Veteran Mechanic Lee Stevenson Departs, Embarks on New Pit Lane Venture

In a significant shakeup within the Formula 1 paddock, longtime Red Bull Racing mechanic Lee Stevenson bids farewell to the championship-winning team to embrace a new opportunity “at the other end of the pit lane.” 

Stevenson’s departure marks the end of an era spanning 18 years, during which he contributed to the team’s meteoric rise, including multiple constructors’ and drivers’ titles, notably alongside Max Verstappen.

Stevenson’s tenure at Red Bull Racing commenced in 2006, a pivotal period in the team’s evolution from a fledgling outfit to a dominant force in Formula 1. 

His role extended to pivotal moments in the team’s history, from the debut of the RB2 to recent triumphs with the RB16B and RB19. Notably, Stevenson formed an integral part of Verstappen’s pit crew since the Dutchman’s arrival at Red Bull in 2016, witnessing and facilitating all 56 of Verstappen’s F1 victories to date.

March 28 marked Stevenson’s official departure from Red Bull Racing, as confirmed in a heartfelt video message shared on social media. Despite bidding adieu to his longstanding team, Stevenson hinted at his continued presence in the pit lane, teasing fans with his upcoming involvement at the Japanese Grand Prix with his undisclosed new team.

Reflecting on his tenure with Red Bull Racing, Stevenson expressed gratitude for the remarkable journey he embarked on with the team, acknowledging the unforeseen achievements attained during his tenure. He conveyed excitement for the impending challenge awaiting him at his new destination, emphasizing readiness to embrace the opportunity.

“It’s been an amazing 18 years and all the things that I’ve managed to achieve here with the team have been absolutely incredible. From working on the first car, the RB2, and then the RB16B, obviously the RB19… it’s been an incredible journey. I just want to say thanks to everyone here, it’s been an amazing time that I’ve had.”

“In 2006, when I started, I never thought we would win races, get poles, win championships – but we’ve managed to do all of that and it’s just been amazing. So yeah, onto the next chapter. That chapter starts on Monday when I fly to Japan to start work with my new team at the other end of the pit lane. It’s going to be a massive challenge but one I am ready for.”

Stevenson’s departure adds to a series of recent changes within Verstappen’s inner circle, following the exit of his former personal trainer, Bradley Scanes. In a strategic move, Verstappen enlisted the services of seasoned professional Rupert Manwaring, further underscoring the importance of trusted allies in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.

As Stevenson embarks on a new chapter in his career, the Formula 1 community awaits eagerly to learn more about his undisclosed venture and its potential implications for the dynamics within the pit lane.