In a stunning turn of events, Red Bull Racing has announced the immediate departure of long-time team principal and CEO, Christian Horner, following the British Grand Prix. The decision has sent shockwaves across the Formula 1 world, as Horner’s tenure marked one of the most dominant periods in modern racing history.
Shortly after the announcement, Red Bull issued a respectful and emotional statement across their social media channels, celebrating Horner’s invaluable contribution over the last two decades. The post acknowledged his role in transforming the team into a global powerhouse within F1, emphasizing the legacy he leaves behind.
“After 20 years with the team, Christian Horner departs Oracle Red Bull Racing as team principal and CEO,” the post read. “We thank him for his tireless and exceptional work… you will forever remain an important part of our team’s history.”
Horner’s Final Race & Lasting Impact
Horner’s final race at the helm was the 2025 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. In a challenging outing, Red Bull’s star driver Max Verstappen dropped from pole position to a fifth-place finish amid wet conditions. The race marked the end of Horner’s storied reign—one that began when Red Bull first entered Formula 1 back in 2005.
During his leadership, the team achieved 124 Grand Prix victories, eight Drivers’ Championships, and six Constructors’ Championships. Most notably, Horner led the charge in ending Mercedes’ dominance, with Verstappen winning four consecutive titles from 2021 through 2024.
Beyond racing, Horner was a driving force behind the creation of Red Bull Powertrains, positioning the team to manufacture its own F1 engines for the first time in history under the 2026 regulations.
Leadership Shift at Red Bull
With Horner’s departure, Red Bull wasted no time in announcing a new leadership structure. Laurent Mekies, who had been serving as Racing Bulls’ team principal, will now assume the role of Red Bull Racing CEO. Stepping into Mekies’ previous role is Alan Permane, promoted from Racing Bulls racing director to team principal.
Mekies expressed deep gratitude for his journey with Racing Bulls and showed full confidence in Permane’s ability to steer the team forward.
“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,” Mekies said.
The End of an Era
Horner’s departure marks a significant transition for Red Bull, closing a chapter that saw unprecedented success and influence. Though his time with the team has ended, his impact on Red Bull Racing—and on Formula 1—will remain deeply etched in the sport’s history.
As the team enters a new era under Mekies and Permane, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Red Bull can maintain its dominant stride on the grid.
