Christian Horner has been dramatically removed as Red Bull Racing's team principal after nearly 20 years in the role, marking a seismic shift in Formula 1's power structure.
Horner, 51, had led Red Bull Racing since its formation in 2005, overseeing an extraordinary era of success that included eight drivers' championships and six constructors' titles. However, his abrupt departure follows months of internal tensions and a scandal that sent shockwaves through the paddock.
BREAKING: Christian Horner is to exit Red Bull Racing with immediate effect#F1 pic.twitter.com/v50mwnBlV6
— Formula 1 (@F1) July 9, 2025
Legacy and Leadership
Under Horner's leadership, Red Bull became a dominant force in Formula 1. The team's first golden era came with Sebastian Vettel, who won four consecutive drivers' titles between 2010 and 2013.
More recently, Max Verstappen delivered an unprecedented run of four consecutive championships, cementing Red Bull's reputation as the grid's benchmark.
Despite these triumphs, internal cracks began to show. Key figures, including legendary aerodynamicist Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, recently departed amid rising friction within the team.
Scandal and Dismissal
In early 2024, Horner was accused of sexual harassment and controlling behaviour by a female employee. Although Red Bull's parent company twice cleared him after internal investigations, the allegations cast a long shadow over his leadership.
On Wednesday, Red Bull confirmed his departure in a brief statement: 'Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today.'
The decision follows increasing scrutiny and internal discord, despite public displays of unity earlier in the season.
Laurent Mekies Takes Over
Replacing Horner is 48-year-old Laurent Mekies, who steps up from Red Bull's sister team, Racing Bulls. Mekies, who joined the Red Bull family in early 2024, previously served as Ferrari's racing director.
His immediate challenge is to stabilise a team that has struggled in 2025, winning just two races so far, while fending off rising threats from teams like McLaren.
Alan Permane, a respected paddock veteran, will replace Mekies at Racing Bulls after serving as their racing director.
Verstappen's Future in Doubt
Horner's exit has raised fresh questions over Verstappen's long-term future with the team. The 27-year-old Dutch driver, who is under contract until 2028, has previously expressed frustration over Red Bull's internal politics and leadership instability.
Reports suggest that Mercedes are eager to capitalise on the uncertainty and lure Verstappen away in what could be one of the biggest driver moves in recent F1 history.
Key Departures Continue
Red Bull's leadership crisis has deepened over the past year. Adrian Newey, regarded as one of the most influential designers in F1 history, recently stepped down, citing dissatisfaction with Horner's leadership and internal power struggles.
Jonathan Wheatley has since taken over as team principal at Sauber, while strategy head Will Courtenay is set to join McLaren later this season.
Despite the turmoil, Red Bull's CEO of corporate projects and investments, Oliver Mintzlaff, acknowledged Horner's contributions: 'With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1.'
A Defining Chapter Ahead
The coming months will be critical for Red Bull as they seek to rebuild both on and off the track. With Mekies now at the helm, the team must navigate not only a competitive 2025 season but also the challenge of retaining Verstappen amid fierce interest from rivals.
After nearly two decades of dominance under Christian Horner, Red Bull faces one of its greatest tests yet—restoring stability, leadership, and trust in the next era of F1.
