Christian Horner Sacked as Red Bull F1 Team Principal
- Admin
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
Christian Horner has been dismissed as team principal of Red Bull Racing after two decades at the helm.
The 51-year-old, who became Formula 1’s youngest team principal when he was appointed in 2005, led Red Bull to eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ titles during his tenure.
His departure follows months of declining team performance and internal power struggles. It also comes in the wake of allegations made 17 months ago by a female employee, accusing Horner of sexual harassment and coercive behaviour. Though Horner was twice cleared by Red Bull GmbH, the situation contributed to ongoing unrest within the organization.
In an official statement released Wednesday, Red Bull confirmed:
“Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today.”
Horner will be succeeded by Laurent Mekies, the former Racing Bulls team principal and ex-Ferrari racing director. Alan Permane has been promoted to lead Racing Bulls.
Under Horner’s leadership, Sebastian Vettel secured four consecutive world championships between 2010 and 2013, while Max Verstappen claimed the last four titles.
Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff paid tribute to Horner:
“We thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the past 20 years. His dedication, vision, and leadership were instrumental in making Red Bull Racing one of the most successful teams in Formula 1 history. He will always be part of our story.”
Verstappen's Future in Doubt
Horner’s dismissal adds further uncertainty to the future of Max Verstappen, who remains under contract until 2028 but has reportedly attracted interest from Mercedes. Verstappen has been unsettled by internal conflicts at Red Bull and has a strained relationship with Horner, particularly following the harassment allegations. His father, Jos Verstappen, previously warned that the team could unravel if Horner remained in charge.
Red Bull’s on-track performance has also faltered. After dominating in recent years, the team has won only two races this season, with McLaren emerging as the new benchmark. Verstappen, despite clinching his fourth world title last year, secured just two wins in the final 14 races.
Departures of Key Figures Deepen Crisis
The team has lost several key personnel over the past 15 months. Legendary designer Adrian Newey widely regarded as F1’s most brilliant technical mind resigned last year, citing dissatisfaction and frustration with the team’s internal politics and Horner’s leadership.
Red Bull's long-time sporting director Jonathan Wheatley also departed, joining Sauber as team principal. Additionally, Will Courtenay, head of strategy, has resigned to join McLaren.
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