Christian Horner Exits Red Bull After 20 Years in Sudden F1 Shakeup

In a stunning development, Red Bull Racing has announced the immediate exit of Christian Horner from his role as CEO and Team Principal. The move brings an end to Horner’s 20-year tenure, during which he transformed Red Bull into one of the most dominant teams in Formula 1 history. 

Red Bull confirmed the news on Wednesday, July 9, thanking Horner “for his tireless and exceptional work.” Laurent Mekies, formerly with Racing Bulls and Ferrari, has been appointed as the new CEO of Red Bull Racing. As well, Alan Permane has been promoted to Team Principal at Racing Bulls, stepping up from his role as Racing Director.

Christian Horner joined Red Bull Racing in 2005, when the energy drink company first entered Formula 1. At just 31 years old, he became the youngest team principal on the grid. Under his leadership, Red Bull quickly evolved from midfield candidates to championship contenders. 

During his time in charge, Red Bull claimed six Constructors’ Championships and eight Driver’s titles – four with Sebastian Vettel (2010-2013) and four with Max Verstappen (2021-2024). Horner’s influence extended beyond the track, playing a key role in Red Bull’s branding, culture, and talent development. 

Red Bull has not provided a reason for Horner’s exit, prompting widespread speculations. Earlier in 2024, Horner was the subject of an internal investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour toward a female employee. While the investigation concluded with Horner being cleared, the episode exposed internal divisions within the team – particularly involving senior figures such as Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen’s team. 

There is also speculation that the leadership change is connected to Max Verstappen’s long-term future, with rumors circulating about a possible switch to Mercedes in 2026. Red Bull has consistently denied any rift between the Dutch driver and team management, but his future has become a central storyline in the sport. 

Horner’s tenure was also marked by criticism of Red Bull’s handling of its second driver seat. Multiple young drivers – including Daniil Kvyat, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and most recently Liam Lawson – were promoted and demoted under intense pressure, drawing scrutiny for the team’s ruthless performance culture. While these decisions were shaped with Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, Horner consistently supported the team’s high-stakes approach. 

Christian Horner’s exit marks the end of one of Formula 1’s most successful leadership eras. Under his watch, Red Bull Racing became a dominant force and cultivated a winning culture that reshaped the sport’s competitive landscape. 

With Laurent Mekies now leading the team, Red Bull faces a pivotal transition. The 2025 season continues with the team still at the sharp end of the grid – but questions remain about how the internal dynamics will evolve, and whether this reshuffle could influence the team’s performance or Verstappen’s next move.