Red Bull Racing fires long-serving team principal Christian Horner

In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world, Red Bull Racing has announced the immediate resignation of its long-serving team principal and CEO, Christian Horner. After two decades in the role, Horner's tenure, during which Red Bull secured multiple World Constructors' and Drivers' Championships, has come to an abrupt end.

Laurent Mekies, who previously served as the team principal of Red Bull's sister team, the Racing Bulls, will take over as the new CEO of Red Bull Racing effective immediately. Alan Permane, currently the Racing Director of the Racing Bulls, will be promoted to team principal of the junior team.

Horner has been a pivotal figure in Red Bull's dominance since the team's inception in 2005. His leadership contributed to the championship successes of both Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. While Red Bull has not disclosed the specific reasons for his sudden departure, it follows a tumultuous period for the team, including recent internal investigations and ongoing speculation about a power struggle within the organization.

Last month, Horner denied reports that Ferrari chairman John Elkann had approached him to replace the dismissed Fred Vasseur. However, as long as Horner maintained the support of Red Bull's main shareholder, Chalerm Yoovidhya, who co-founded the company with the late Dietrich Mateschitz, his position appeared secure.

This reshuffle marks a significant change for Red Bull Racing as they enter a new era under Mekies' leadership, to win the title in the challenging 2025 season, where they currently sit fourth in the constructors' championship.