Red Bull make key decision as senior Racing Bulls figure handed contract extension

Alan Permane has signed a new long-term contract that will keep him in charge of Racing Bulls as team principal and co-CEO sporting through to the end of 2031.

Permane joined the Faenza-based outfit as racing director in January 2024, working alongside Laurent Mekies before being promoted to team principal in July 2025.

Since that promotion, the team has claimed its first podium under the Racing Bulls name, at last year's Dutch Grand Prix, and matched its best-ever constructors' championship finish with sixth place in 2025.

This season has brought further progress, with the team establishing itself as a regular points scorer and still fighting for fifth in the constructors' standings, a result that would represent its best finish in the championship.

Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO Ccorporate projects and investments at Red Bull, credited Permane's influence on the team's upward trajectory.

"Alan is doing a tremendous job, and the progress the team has made is a direct reflection of his experience, commitment and competitive mindset," Mintzlaff said.

"He brings clarity, composure, and a deep understanding of what it takes to perform in Formula One, while creating an environment where people can consistently deliver at their best.

"The results Racing Bulls has achieved in recent seasons underline the strength of the team and the work being done throughout the organisation. Alan has played a key role in that progress, and we are very pleased that he will continue to lead the team as we look to build on this momentum in the years ahead.

"Together with Peter Bayer as Co-CEO commercial, Alan forms a strong and experienced leadership team. They complement each other exceptionally well, bringing different strengths and perspectives to the organisation. I am delighted that we have this stability and continuity in place, providing a clear platform for the team's future development and long-term ambitions."

Permane brings more than three decades of Formula 1 experience to the role, having started his career at Benetton. 

He spent 34 years with the team that became Enstone, working as race engineer, chief race engineer and then sporting director, and won world titles alongside Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso during that spell.

Permane himself expressed pride at extending his stay with the team, thanking Red Bull for their backing.

"I am immensely proud to be continuing this journey with VCARB, and I would like to thank everyone at Red Bull for the trust and support they have given me," Permane said.

"What makes this team special is the shared spirit of everyone; trackside, in Faenza and in Milton Keynes, and it is a privilege to lead such a talented and committed group every day.

"Fighting for fifth in the championship is something we should all be very proud of, but it is the result of years of hard work from a lot of people, and we are not done yet. We have the right people, the right culture and a clear sense of where we want to go, and I am excited to keep pushing together."