In an unexpected turn of events, Red Bull Racing announced yesterday that CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner was “exiting the squad” effective immediately, after upwards of 20 years.
We were given no explanation as to why, just a thank you, and a recognition of his work, acknowledging his “key role in turning them from points scorers into World Champions”.
Horner announced the news to a crew in the Red Bull Racing base in Milton Keynes, and it sure was a tearjerker.
He said he would still be involved, but "operationally the baton will be handed over”, meaning he won’t be a part of any business procedures or the team.
The 51-year-old said the news “came as a shock”.
“I wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and just express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20 and a half years that I’ve been here.”
When Horner joined the Red Bull team, “with a few less grey hairs”, he had feelings of apprehension, but spoke to the warm nature of the team and how he was "immediately welcomed.”
His voice began to crack as he expressed: “Watching and being a part of this team has been the biggest privilege in my life. Seeing the team…”
That was all he managed to get out before his tears got the best of him.
Once he stopped, the crowd immediately gave him a massive round of applause. As they should.
Red Bull Racing fans were quick to put their fists up for Horner in the comments.
“Christian absolutely deserved more respect than this,” one person said.
“Red Bull did him dirty,” said another.
Another hit the nail on the head, writing: “You can tell they literally gave him zero warning.”
Horner, who led Red Bull through their first F1 season in 2005, has accumulated eight drivers' championships and six constructors' championship titles over his career.
While announcing Laurent Mekies, the 2nd tier team ‘Racing Bulls’ Team Boss, would be taking over as CEO and Team Principal, Red Bull acknowledged Horner’s “tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking.”
He will forever remain an important part of our team history.
Horner has faced his fair share of criticism this year, particularly from us Kiwis, after Liam Lawson was demoted from F1 just two races in.
Despite that, you really feel for the guy.
He posted his final hurrah on Instagram this morning, saying: “It is with a heavy heart that today I say goodbye to the team I have absolutely loved.”
He spoke to his privilege in “leading this epic team”, and says that he is leaving with “immense pride in what we’ve achieved”.
Red Bull’s F1 star Max Verstappen shared his thanks through social media, writing on X: “From my first race win, to four world champions, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian.”
Our hearts are with ya, Christian. It was a great shift you put in.
