Christian Horner reveals shock after Red Bull F1 dismissal

Christian Horner reveals his shock following his dismissal from the positions of CEO and team principal of Red Bull Formula 1 — a decision conveyed by Austrian management on Tuesday night.

In an emotional speech to factory staff, Horner communicated that he would remain a company employee — though his operational role with the team would cease.

“This obviously came as a shock to me. When I arrived 20 years ago with darker hair, I didn’t know what to expect. But watching and being part of this team has been the greatest privilege of my life,” Horner stated with a trembling voice.

Under his leadership, the Milton Keynes-based team secured six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ championships through Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. A performance decline over the past 18 months — coupled with the departure of key personnel like Adrian Newey — is believed to have prompted his dismissal.

Laurent Mekies will immediately assume the CEO and team principal positions, leaving his role at Racing Bulls. Meanwhile, Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s CEO, expressed gratitude for Horner’s exceptional dedication over two decades in building the team into one of Formula 1’s strongest competitors.