“Mad as a box of frogs” – Will former Mercedes engine guru Andy Cowell join Red Bull Powertrains?
Andy Cowell is one of the key figures of Mercedes’ unprecedented dominance in Formula 1. Hence, it came as a shock to many when he decided to quit the project before the start of last season. His friends and family termed him as “mad as a box of frogs”. Quite a description, that.
Now Dr. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s advisor and head of the driver development programme, has thrown the hat into the ring for Cowell’s signature. But speaking to Motorsport Magazin.com, he has confirmed that the hiring, if it does, will not happen on an immediate basis.
“We always talk. It would be a nice option but it’s not current.”
Christian Horner keen on Mercedes legend Andy Cowell
Horner, on his part, was full praise for Cowell, and what he has done for Mercedes over the years. The Red Bull team principal seems keen on bringing him in, but only if Cowell wants to return to F1. If this indeed happens, it will mark a major coup for the Milton Keynes-based outfit.
“What he’s achieved obviously in the recent 10 years of the sport has been mightily impressive,” said Horner. “He was obviously a lynchpin of what Mercedes and HPP have delivered. I think he’s obviously chosen to pursue, I think, other activities outside of Formula 1.
“Of course, as far as engines are concerned, he’s been the guy that has delivered year on year. But my understanding is that his interests currently lay outside of Formula 1.”
