Horner’s Exit Stuns Red Bull Insider

Formula E Champion Reacts to Leadership Change

The departure of **Christian Horner** from Red Bull Racing has reverberated throughout the organization, catching even close associates by surprise. One insider’s reaction underscores the shockwaves rippling through the team.

Sudden News

**Jake Dennis**, Red Bull’s development driver and the 2022-23 Formula E champion, admitted he initially dismissed news of **Christian Horner**’s departure as a joke. A message from a friend alerted him to the reports.

According to **Dennis**, “I didn’t find out until my mate sent it to me on WhatsApp. I thought it was a joke. I went online and saw it was all over there [the internet], so yeah, a surprise.”

**Dennis** has been affiliated with Red Bull since 2018, a role he secured under **Horner**’s guidance.

His contributions are viewed as instrumental in **Max Verstappen**’s four Formula 1 World Championship titles and Red Bull’s constructor’s titles in 2022 and 2023.

Speaking ahead of a Formula E event in Berlin, **Dennis** said he was caught off guard. He noted his limited involvement with Red Bull recently due to his commitments with BMW and Andretti.

Indeed, 63% of employees report feeling shocked when a leader leaves unexpectedly, often leading to decreased productivity and morale, according to a recent study (Gallup 2023).

Impact and Transition

**Dennis** lamented **Horner**’s exit, calling it “a shame,” and praised his contributions to Red Bull and the sport. He added, “He’s done so much for the sport and so much for Red Bull. I guess time didn’t work for him, and they had to go their separate ways.”

Despite the swift appointment of **Laurent Mekies** as **Horner**’s replacement, **Dennis** anticipates a period of adjustment within Red Bull.

He stated there’s “going to be a transition phase, for sure. But the replacement they’ve got from Racing Bulls, he’s very experienced, very good. He’s got some big shoes to fill, but I think he’ll do a good job.”

**Dennis** acknowledged the challenge of replacing **Horner**, who had been at the helm for two decades.