Red Bull bolsters ranks by signing two-time world champion

Red Bull has signed two-time F1 world esports champion Jarno Opmeer on a long-term deal after he left Mercedes.

Opmeer joined Mercedes in 2021 as reigning world champion, going onto defend his crown but took fifth and fourth in the following two seasons. 

His departure from Mercedes was announced earlier this year, but he has now signed for Red Bull's operation for whom Frederik Rasmussen won the title in 2023-24.

Nobody has more titles than Opmeer, who will join to partner Rasmussen. 

"I can’t wait to get started with Red Bull Sim Racing," Opmeer explained. 

"My first race with the team is tonight – we have been practicing hard. This weekend, I will be attending the Dutch GP as well, so it’s shaping up to be a great first week. I’m looking forward to what the future brings."

Adding on the move, Joe Soltysik, head of the esports arm of Red Bull said that: "Jarno joining our team is not only a reflection of the hard work behind the scenes from both ourselves and Team Redline, but also a statement of intent to create sustained success in Sim Racing from Red Bull Racing. 

"A lineup of Jarno Opmeer and Frede Rasmussen is the strongest possible combination of drivers in F1 Sim Racing and will hopefully bode well for our chances to reclaim the team Championship title."