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A Sudden Change in Leadership at Red Bull F1
Christian Horner, the long-time team principal of Red Bull Racing, has confirmed that his dismissal from the role came as a shock to him. This was his first public statement since the news broke on Wednesday morning, marking a significant moment in the history of the Formula 1 team.
Red Bull’s Austrian leadership informed Horner on Tuesday night that he would no longer be serving as CEO and team principal of the Milton Keynes-based squad. His tenure, which spanned over two decades, saw the team achieve remarkable success, including six constructors’ titles and eight drivers’ titles shared between Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
However, this change comes after a period of declining performance over the past 18 months. The team faced challenges in maintaining its competitive edge, and key figures such as Adrian Newey have departed. Additionally, the future of Max Verstappen now stands at a critical juncture.
Horner was informed of his sacking on Tuesday evening and shared the news with his employees during a brief speech at the factory on Wednesday morning. The speech, which was broadcasted by Sky Sports, revealed that he will remain employed by the company for now, though the specifics of his new role are yet to be determined.
“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 stated. “I will still remain employed by the company, but operationally, the baton will be handed over. That obviously came as a shock to myself, but what I’ve had time to do is to reflect over the last 12 hours or so.”
He also expressed his gratitude to the team members who contributed to the success of the organization over the past 20 and a half years. “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.”
The emotional speech was met with applause from the factory staff, highlighting the deep connection and respect Horner has built with his colleagues over the years.
Key Personnel Changes
In addition to Horner’s departure, it has been reported that two key hires under his leadership—chief marketing director Oliver Hughes and group director of communications Paul Smith—have also left the team. These departures signal a broader shift in the team’s structure and direction.
Laurent Mekies, the current team principal of Racing Bulls, has been appointed as the new CEO and team principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing. He will assume the role immediately, leaving his position at Racing Bulls to sporting director Alan Permane. Mekies expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to lead the team and emphasized his excitement about the future.
“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,” Mekies 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.”
Mekies also acknowledged 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.”
Recognition of Horner’s Contributions
Oliver Minztlaff, who oversees the F1 team for Red Bull’s Austrian parent company, also thanked Horner for his services as the founding team boss. “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years,” said Red Bull’s CEO Corporate Projects and Investments. “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.”
This transition marks a new chapter for Red Bull Racing as it seeks to rebuild and reinvigorate its performance in the highly competitive world of Formula 1. The team will now look to Laurent Mekies and his leadership to guide it toward continued success.
