Christian Horner has been shown the door as Red Bull Racing's team principal after two decades in the position, a tenure that includes eight drivers' titles. His exit follows internal discord and dwindling performance results.
Red Bull Parts Ways with Longtime Boss Horner After 20 Years
Red Bull Parts Ways with Longtime Boss Horner After 20 Years
Christian Horner's departure marks a significant shake-up within Red Bull Racing amidst team struggles.
Horner’s removal comes after a remarkable 20-year leadership of the Red Bull Formula 1 team, a period during which they secured eight drivers' championships and six constructors' championships. The decision to part ways with Horner has been attributed to months of declining performance and escalating internal conflicts.
In a statement, Red Bull GmBH confirmed Horner's dismissal, citing it had been effective immediately. Horner expressed gratitude for his time at Red Bull on Instagram, acknowledging the “incredible era of motorsport” he had been part of and assuring fans of promising developments ahead for the 2026 season.
Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, also took to social media to express his thanks to Horner for their successes together, reminiscing about their shared victories and record-breaking achievements.
Taking over the role of team principal and chief executive is Laurent Mekies, who has been elevated from his previous position at Racing Bulls. Mekies, formerly Ferrari's racing director, enters the role under challenging circumstances as Red Bull struggles for race wins this season. Meanwhile, Alan Permane has been appointed to lead Racing Bulls.
Horner, who was once F1's youngest team principal, leaves behind a tumultuous situation as Verstappen's future hangs in the balance. While the four-time champion is under contract until 2028, rumors have surfaced regarding a potential move to Mercedes.
This latest shake-up follows the departure of key personnel within the team, including Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley, contributing to a tumultuous internal environment. With concerns around Verstappen's continued commitment to Red Bull arising, the team must recalibrate and perhaps confront a transition as they aim to reclaim their previous glory.
In the current season, Red Bull has secured only two wins, with McLaren emerging as a formidable competitor, indicating a significant shift in the competitive landscape since the lean years during Horner’s tenure. Questions linger about Verstappen's next move and whether he will remain at Red Bull as the downward trend continues and star power shifts in the paddock.
In a statement, Red Bull GmBH confirmed Horner's dismissal, citing it had been effective immediately. Horner expressed gratitude for his time at Red Bull on Instagram, acknowledging the “incredible era of motorsport” he had been part of and assuring fans of promising developments ahead for the 2026 season.
Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, also took to social media to express his thanks to Horner for their successes together, reminiscing about their shared victories and record-breaking achievements.
Taking over the role of team principal and chief executive is Laurent Mekies, who has been elevated from his previous position at Racing Bulls. Mekies, formerly Ferrari's racing director, enters the role under challenging circumstances as Red Bull struggles for race wins this season. Meanwhile, Alan Permane has been appointed to lead Racing Bulls.
Horner, who was once F1's youngest team principal, leaves behind a tumultuous situation as Verstappen's future hangs in the balance. While the four-time champion is under contract until 2028, rumors have surfaced regarding a potential move to Mercedes.
This latest shake-up follows the departure of key personnel within the team, including Adrian Newey and Jonathan Wheatley, contributing to a tumultuous internal environment. With concerns around Verstappen's continued commitment to Red Bull arising, the team must recalibrate and perhaps confront a transition as they aim to reclaim their previous glory.
In the current season, Red Bull has secured only two wins, with McLaren emerging as a formidable competitor, indicating a significant shift in the competitive landscape since the lean years during Horner’s tenure. Questions linger about Verstappen's next move and whether he will remain at Red Bull as the downward trend continues and star power shifts in the paddock.
