Renowned designer Adrian Newey says he could be tempted to make a full-time return to Formula 1 in future seasons, but only if the sport’s currently “restrictive” technical regulations are changed.

Red Bull ended speculation over Newey’s future by announcing a fresh “multi-year agreement” ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, but the Briton is being cut loose from Formula 1 to work on a variety of side projects.

F1′s new technical era, featuring turbocharged power units, reduced aerodynamics and stringent fuel limits, has split opinion throughout the pit lane, with Newey particularly aggrieved by the lack of design opportunity.

But if the rule makers make adjustments over the next few years, Newey would be open to a comeback.

“It’s quite possible,” he said. “I’ve come to the stage in my career where I’d quite like to try other challenges, whatever they may be, and try my hand at different things. It’s fresh stimulation, but these things are transient.

“I’m 55 and not ready for the beach just yet. I’ll do this for a little bit and see what happens after that.”

Discussing his frustrations with the rules, Newey said: “I just feel, to be perfectly honest, the current regulations are very restrictive, which is a shame. It’s difficult to find new areas to explore because they are so tight.

“At the same time, I’d like to see if I can apply my ability, whatever that might be, to other areas.”

Newey reiterated that he will continue to help the F1 team in the short-term, before gradually stepping back.

“I will be fully involved with the team over the next few months,” he commented. “During that time we will look at how the engineering structure will run in the future and then, once I get fully into the new projects, I will step back and take on much more of an advisory role and, if you like, mentoring some of my colleague engineers.”