In a seismic shift for Formula 1, Christian Horner has stepped down as CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull Racing after two decades at the helm. Laurent Mekies, formerly Team Principal of Racing Bulls, has been appointed as his successor, effective immediately. The announcement marks the end of an era for Red Bull, a team that Horner transformed from a mid-field contender into a dominant force in Formula 1.
Horner, who joined Red Bull in 2005 as the youngest team principal in F1 at the time, oversaw an extraordinary period of success. Under his leadership, the team claimed eight Drivers’ Championships—four with Sebastian Vettel and four with Max Verstappen—and six Constructors’ Championships. Red Bull also achieved all 124 of its Grand Prix victories during Horner’s tenure, cementing its place as one of the most successful teams in the sport’s history.
“Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today,” a team spokesperson confirmed. “We would like to thank Christian 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.”
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The decision to part ways with Horner comes amid growing tensions within the team. Sources indicate that internal struggles, including uncertainty over Max Verstappen’s future and frustrations with the car’s performance this season, contributed to the shake-up. Verstappen, who has been vocal about his dissatisfaction, declined to commit to Red Bull for 2026, fueling speculation about his potential departure. Additionally, the team has faced significant personnel changes in recent years, including the departure of legendary technical director Adrian Newey to Aston Martin and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley to Sauber.
Horner’s exit also follows a series of high-profile meetings during the Austrian and British Grands Prix, reportedly involving Verstappen and Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments. Mintzlaff, who has long advocated for a leadership change, expressed gratitude for Horner’s contributions. “With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise, and innovative thinking, Christian 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.”
Laurent Mekies, who has led Racing Bulls since 2024, steps into the role of CEO and Team Principal at Red Bull Racing. Mekies brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record, having overseen Racing Bulls’ rise as a competitive force in F1. “It’s an honor to be part of this group of brilliant people that embody the Red Bull spirit,” Mekies said. “Together we will achieve great results, building on the incredible legacy left by Christian Horner during his two decades in charge.”
As part of the managerial reshuffle, Alan Permane, previously Racing Director at Racing Bulls, has been promoted to Team Principal of the sister team. “I feel very honored to take on the role as Team Principal,” Permane said. “I am looking forward to continuing the good work that both Laurent and Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO] have done in taking this team forward.”
Horner’s departure comes at a critical juncture for Red Bull, as the team prepares for significant regulatory changes in 2026, including the introduction of its own engines in partnership with Ford. The leadership transition will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory as it navigates this new era.
Max Verstappen, who has been a cornerstone of Red Bull’s recent success, paid tribute to Horner on social media. “From my first race win to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!”