Christian Horner leaves Red Bull Racing

Team principal Christian Horner and Red Bull Racing have parted ways, reports Velocity News.

The decision ends Horner’s 20-year tenure at the team he helped build into a modern F1 powerhouse.

Despite being contracted through to 2030, Horner will not see out the remainder of his time.

The team’s leadership decided that a change at the top was necessary.

Horner has been a central figure at Red Bull Racing since the team entered Formula 1 in 2005. At 31 years of age, he became the youngest team principal in the sport at the time.

Red Bull clinched six Constructors’ Championships with Horner at the helm. He secured eight Drivers’ Championships, four each with Vettel and Verstappen.

However, persistent internal unrest put his position in jeopardy. Eventually management decided that stability could only be restored through his departure.

“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, CEO Corporate Projects and Investments, said: “We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the past 20 years. 

“He has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1.”

Taking over the reins at Red Bull Racing is Laurent Mekies, current team principal of Racing Bulls. Mekies will step into the top job at the Milton Keynes-based team as it navigates one of its most trying periods in recent memory.

“The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team” 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.”

Current Racing Director Alan Permane will step up as Team Principal of Racing Bulls.

Mekies said: “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 commented: “I feel very honoured to take on the role as Team Principal….This is a new challenge for me, but I know that I can count on the support of everyone.”

The departure of Horner marks the end of an era for Red Bull Racing. This team rose from midfield status to dominate the sport, in large part due to the leadership and vision Horner provided.