PARIS, Jan 13 (AFP) - Formula One newcomers Red Bull have blamed this month's surprise management reshuffle on the decision to delay the unveiling of their new car until the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in March.
Red Bull, who bought out the Jaguar team in November, were hoping to launch the RB1 at the Spanish circuit of Jerez on February 7.
A statement issued by the energy drinks company on Thursday confirmed: "Due to important changes at the centre of the team over the past few months the decision has been been taken to put back the launch."
The rookie F1 outfit's sporting director Christian Horner added: "We're in a period of reconstruction and want to make use of each day to prepare for the new season."
Red Bull also announced Thursday the apointment of Gunther Steiner as their new technical director.
He links up with Horner who joined Red Bull after the unscheduled departure of team principal Tony Purnell. Managing director David Pitchforth also left the team just three months before the start of the 2005 season.
Red Bull's challenge will be spearheaded by David Coulthard with either Vitantonio Liuzzi or Christian Klien taking the second seat.
The Australian GP takes place at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit on March 6.
01/13/2005 17:44 GMT - AFP