Red Bull Fires Team Principal **Christian Horner**

In a stunning turn of events, **Christian Horner** has been dismissed from his position as team principal of Red Bull after a 20-year tenure. The move raises questions about the team’s future direction and the potential departure of star driver **Max Verstappen**.

Sudden Departure Shakes F1 World

Red Bull announced the firing of **Christian Horner**, without specifying the reasons. They released a statement thanking the 51-year-old for his contributions, acknowledging that he will “forever remain an important part of our team history.”

**Oliver Mintzlaff**, Red Bull’s chief executive for corporate projects and investments, stated, “We would like to thank **Christian Horner** for his exceptional work over the last 20 years.” He lauded Horner’s impact in establishing Red Bull Racing as a leading Formula 1 team.

New Leadership Appointed

Taking over as team principal will be **Laurent Mekies**, who is currently associated with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls. The change marks a new chapter for Red Bull, a team **Horner** has led since its F1 inception in 2005.

A Legacy of Success

Under **Horner’s** guidance, Red Bull achieved remarkable success, securing eight drivers’ championships and six constructors’ championships. The team saw **Sebastian Vettel** win four consecutive drivers’ world titles from 2010 to 2013. More recently, **Max Verstappen** has dominated, claiming the last four championships.

During **Horner’s** time at the helm, Red Bull celebrated 124 Grand Prix victories, achieved 107 pole positions, and secured 287 podium finishes.

Controversies and Rumors

In recent times, **Horner’s** leadership has been shadowed by controversy. Red Bull launched an internal investigation following allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a team member. **Horner** was cleared of wrongdoing, but the matter resurfaced after alleged leaked messages circulated within the F1 community.

The team’s struggles this season include **Max Verstappen** sitting third in the drivers’ championship standings. Red Bull currently sits fourth in the 2025 constructors’ championship, lagging significantly behind McLaren, who is currently the top constructor team (Formula1.com).

**Verstappen’s** Future Uncertain

The dismissal of **Horner** coincides with speculation about **Max Verstappen’s** potential departure from Red Bull at the end of the season. **Verstappen** has been linked to Mercedes, despite his contract with Red Bull extending until 2028.

While **Verstappen** has avoided commenting on his future, his manager, **Raymond Vermeulen**, stated they were informed in advance of Red Bull’s decision and are awaiting further explanation. “We continue looking at the sporting side and are in search of more performance so that we can return to the top. In that regard, nothing is changing.” said **Vermeulen**.