Max Verstappen is making final preparations for the Australian Grand Prix, the opening event of the Formula 1 season; however, Red Bull Racing is facing a significant setback with the impending departure of chief designer Craig Skinner. Skinner, who has worked with the team for four years and has been a crucial part of its engineering success for two decades, has decided to leave the team just weeks before the start of the season. His exit could jeopardize Verstappen's plans as he aims for another Drivers' Championship.

Craig Skinner's contribution to Red Bull has been substantial, having joined as a CFD engineer in 2006 and rising through the ranks to become chief designer. His knowledge and leadership have played a vital role in the development of competitive cars for the team over the years. The team's official statement praised Skinner’s long tenure and the crucial role he played in their success, reflecting the uncertainty that his departure brings this close to a new season.

The implications of Skinner’s departure are significant for Verstappen, who has expressed ambitions of dominating the upcoming season and reclaiming the championship title. The timing of this change raises questions about design continuity and stability within the team, which could ultimately affect their performance and strategies in the fiercely competitive F1 landscape this year.