Red Bull’s termination of Christian Horner has sent shockwaves throughout the world of Formula One. A formidable presence in the sport, Horner had helmed Red Bull Racing throughout its rise and dominance. The team saw eight drivers’ championship titles and six constructors’ titles under his leadership. So, why was Horner fired despite his celebrated achievements over the years?
Here’s everything we know.
What happened to Christian Horner?
On July 9, 2025, Red Bull laid off Christian Horner, ending his 20-year tenure as the team principal of Red Bull Racing in Formula One. The company has not given an official reason behind this drastic decision. However, insiders suggest it may have been a culmination of multiple events within the team.
Following the news of Horner’s exit, ESPN reported that the atmosphere within the team has been strained for a few months, as revealed by insider sources. The tension further escalated with the team’s recent struggles on the track, as well as the uncertainty surrounding its elite driver Max Verstappen’s future in the team. Furthermore, Horner’s highly publicized friction with Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, seemed to worsen the situation.
Additionally, Horner made headlines in February 2024 when Red Bull launched a sexual misconduct investigation against him. Although the company cleared him of the allegations, the case has not been officially closed yet. However, Horner did retain his position and continued to serve as RB’s team principal before his termination this year.
Following the announcement, the CEO of Red Bull GmbH, Oliver Mintzlaff, issued a public statement thanking Horner for his exceptional contribution. “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,” stated Mintzlaff. World Champion Max Verstappen has penned an emotional note bidding farewell to Horner as well.
Red Bull has officially replaced Horner with Laurent Mekies as the new CEO and Team Principal for RB Racing. Mekies had formerly helmed its sister team, Racing Bulls, currently competing as Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team (VCARB).