Red Bull has suffered another organizational blow as racing strategy director Will Courtenay is snapped up by F1 rivals McLaren.

Courtenay, who will join McLaren as sporting director, is the latest major move this year following the departures of Adrian Newey, who is joining Aston Martin, and Jonathan Wheatley, who is heading to Sauber/Audi.

Courtenay has been with Red Bull for 20 years, having been appointed to his current role in 2010. However, the move will not take place until mid-2026.

McLaren said Courtenay will report to racing director Randeep Singh, in a role designed to “help develop the team’s sporting operations as the team continues to pursue success” in F1.

Courtenay’s wealth of experience “will add depth to the team’s sporting operations and drive performance across the team”.

Team Principal Andrea Stella said: “We are delighted to welcome Will to McLaren. His experience, professionalism and passion for motorsport make him the ideal candidate to lead our F1 sporting function.

“We are now entering a crucial phase in our journey as a team, and we are confident that he will be a great addition to our strong leadership team as we continue to challenge for wins and championships.”

A Red Bull spokesperson said the team was “sorry to see him leave after a long and successful career, but wished him all the best”, adding that Courtenay “will remain a member of the team until mid-2026”.