The Shock of Sacking: Christian Horner’s Departure from Red Bull F1
Christian Horner, the long-standing team principal of Red Bull F1, has revealed that his sacking came as a surprise to him. This is his first public comment since the news broke on Wednesday morning, marking a significant moment in the history of one of the most successful teams in Formula 1.
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Red Bull’s Austrian leadership informed Horner on Tuesday night that he had been relieved of his duties as F1 CEO and team principal. This decision came after two decades at the helm, during which he led the Milton Keynes-based squad to remarkable success. Under his leadership, the team secured six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ titles, with Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen being the key drivers.
However, the recent decline in competitiveness over the past 18 months appears to have played a role in this decision. Additionally, the departure of key team members such as Adrian Newey has raised concerns about the future of the team, especially regarding the position of Max Verstappen, who now faces a critical crossroads in his career.
After being informed on Tuesday evening, Horner shared the news with his employees at the factory on Wednesday morning. He delivered a short speech, which was later broadcasted by Sky Sports. While he confirmed that he will remain on the company’s payroll for now, the exact nature of his role remains unclear.
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“I was informed by Red Bull yesterday that, operationally, I will no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward from after this gathering,” Horner said. “I will still remain employed by the company, but operationally, the baton will be handed over. And that obviously came as a shock to myself.”
He also took the time to reflect on the last 20 and a half years of his tenure. “When I arrived 20 years ago, with a few less grey hairs, I walked into the team, I didn’t know what to expect, but I was immediately welcomed. And out of two rundown buildings, we started to build what became a powerhouse in Formula 1. Watching and being part of this team has been the biggest privilege in my life.”
His emotional speech was met with applause from the factory staff, highlighting the deep respect and appreciation he has earned over the years.
Key Changes and New Leadership
It is understood that two key hires by Horner, chief marketing director Oliver Hughes and group director of communications Paul Smith, have also left the squad. This marks a significant shift in the team’s structure and strategy.
Laurent Mekies, the current Racing Bulls team principal, will take over Horner’s role as Red Bull F1 CEO and team principal with immediate effect. He will leave his position at Red Bull’s sister team Racing Bulls to sporting director Alan Permane.
Mekies expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Visa Cash App Racing Bulls over the last year and a half. “It has been an absolute privilege to lead Visa Cash App Racing Bulls and I would like to thank all of our talented people both in Faenza and Milton Keynes,” he said. “Looking to the future, I am excited to be taking on the role of CEO and team principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing, one of the most successful and dynamic teams in the sport.”
He emphasized the importance of building on the legacy left by Horner, stating, “It’s an honour to be part of this group of brilliant people that embody the Red Bull spirit. Together we will achieve great results, building on the incredible legacy left by Christian Horner during his two decades in charge.”
Acknowledging Horner’s Contributions
Oliver Minztlaff, who oversees the F1 team for Red Bull’s Austrian parent company, also thanked Horner for his services as founding team boss. “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years,” he said. “With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1. Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history.”
As the team moves forward under new leadership, the focus will be on rebuilding and regaining the competitive edge that defined Red Bull’s success in the past. The transition marks a new chapter for the team, with hopes of continuing the legacy of excellence that Horner helped establish.
