Breaking: Red Bull fires team principal Christian Horner

In a major shake-up at the top of Formula 1, Red Bull Racing have parted ways with their long-serving team principal, Christian Horner, bringing an end to a 20-year era that helped define the sport’s modern era.

Horner, 51, has been with Red Bull since the team’s debut in 2005, steering them to incredible success on the track. Under his leadership, Red Bull racked up an impressive eight constructors’ championships and eight drivers’ titles — four of which were secured consecutively by current champ Max Verstappen.

Red Bull is undergoing a significant leadership change, with Laurent Mekies stepping in to replace Christian Horner as CEO.

The decision to move on comes amid a dip in the team’s recent form and internal tensions behind the scenes. It also follows the fallout from serious allegations made 17 months ago involving claims of sexual harassment and controlling behavior from a female team member.

During Horner’s reign, Red Bull became a powerhouse in Formula 1, with Sebastian Vettel won title from 2010 to 2013 — a golden era that firmly cemented the team’s place in the sport’s elite.

“Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today (Wednesday 9 July 2025) and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing,” said a Red Bull spokesperson.

“Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s chief executive of corporate projects and investments thanked Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years.”

“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.

“Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history.”

As part of this transition, Alan Permane, currently serving as Racing Director for Racing Bulls, will move up to become Team Principal of the sister team.

“The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team with Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO],” commented Mekies.

“It has been an amazing adventure to contribute to the birth of Racing Bulls together with all our talented people. The spirit of the whole team is incredible, and I strongly believe that this is just the beginning.

“Alan is the perfect man to take over now and continue our path. He knows the team inside out and has always been an important pillar of our early successes.”

Permane expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: “I feel very honoured to take on the role as Team Principal and would like to thank Oliver and Helmut [Marko, Red Bull advisor] for the trust they have shown in me.

“I am looking forward to working with Peter to continue the good work that both him and Laurent have done in taking this team forward.

“This is a new challenge for me, but I know that I can count on the support of everyone within them.”

More to follow.