In a seismic shift that has sent ripples through the Formula 1 paddock, Christian horner has departed from his role as CEO and Team principal of Red Bull racing, effective immediately. The announcement, made on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, marks the end of a two-decade era under Horner’s leadership. Stepping into the pivotal CEO position at the Milton Keynes outfit is Laurent Mekies, previously the Team Principal of Red Bull’s sister squad, Racing Bulls.
This significant management overhaul comes just days after the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Horner’s departure concludes his long tenure with Red Bull, a partnership that began in 2005 when the energy drink giant first entered Formula 1.
End of an Era: Christian Horner’s 20 Years at Red Bull
Christian Horner was the longest-serving team principal on the current F1 grid. Appointed at the young age of 31, he led Red Bull Racing from its very first season. Over the subsequent 20 years, he was instrumental in transforming the team. What began as a midfield hopeful evolved into a dominant force in world motorsport.
Under Horner’s guidance, Red Bull Racing secured an impressive haul of championship titles. This included four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ championships with Sebastian Vettel from 2010 to 2013. The team then entered a second period of unprecedented dominance, winning four consecutive drivers’ championships with Max Verstappen from 2021 to 2024. Additionally, Red Bull claimed constructors’ titles in 2022 and 2023. His tenure delivered 124 wins, 107 pole positions, and 287 podium finishes, firmly cementing Red Bull’s legacy as one of F1’s most successful teams. Red Bull stated that Horner’s tireless commitment, experience, expertise, and innovative thinking were crucial to this success.
Context Behind the Departure: Turbulence On and Off Track
While Horner’s exit was confirmed with a formal statement thanking him for his work, the reasons behind the immediate split were not officially disclosed. However, multiple reports suggest the decision follows a period of considerable turbulence both within the team and regarding Horner’s position. The news arrives approximately 17 months after Horner faced allegations of inappropriate behavior from a female colleague. Although an internal investigation and a subsequent appeal dismissed the accusations, the saga reportedly strained internal dynamics and contributed to perceptions of a power struggle within the wider Red Bull organization. Figures linked to driver Max Verstappen were publicly critical during this time.
The operational challenges have reportedly been compounded by the team’s performance during the current 2025 season. The RB21 car is rumoured to be struggling compared to competitors. Max Verstappen is currently not leading the championship standings for the first time in three years. At the halfway point of the season, he trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by a significant 69 points. The team finds itself fourth in the constructors’ standings, trailing leaders McLaren by a considerable margin, with Ferrari and Mercedes also positioned ahead. This dip in performance contrasts sharply with their recent dominance and adds another layer of context to the timing of this leadership change.
Adding to the picture of internal strain, several other key figures have recently departed Red Bull Racing. High-profile exits include Adrian Newey, Jonathan Wheatley, and Rob Marshall over the past 18 months. Commentators suggest that the sacking, while sudden, was not entirely unexpected given the perceived internal issues and the team’s recent performance struggles. Long-standing fault lines, potentially linked to Red Bull’s divided ownership structure (split between the Austrian Mateschitz family and the Thai Chalerm Yoovidhya), are also cited as a factor in the underlying power dynamics that Horner ultimately lost. It is suggested that support from the Thai majority owner, which had previously shielded Horner through investigations, may have waned.
The New Leadership: Laurent Mekies Steps Up
Laurent Mekies now takes on the critical role of CEO at Red Bull Racing. Mekies brings a wealth of Formula 1 experience to his new position. His career includes stints at various teams and even within the sport’s governing body. Mekies has worked with Arrows, Minardi (which became Toro Rosso, Red Bull’s junior team), the FIA, and spent significant time at Ferrari. At Ferrari, he served as Sporting Director and Deputy Team Principal.
Most recently, Mekies led the sister team, Racing Bulls (formerly AlphaTauri/Toro Rosso), as their Team Principal for the 2024 season. He commented on his time leading Racing Bulls alongside CEO Peter Bayer, describing it as an “amazing adventure” that contributed to the team’s identity. His move to the senior Red Bull team underscores his standing within the Red Bull motorsport hierarchy and positions him at the helm of one of F1’s most prominent operations during a transitional period.
Reshuffle at Racing Bulls: Alan Permane Takes the Reins
As part of the wider managerial reshuffle across the Red Bull Formula 1 structure, changes are also occurring at Racing Bulls. With Laurent Mekies moving to Red Bull Racing, the Team Principal role at Racing Bulls is being filled by Alan Permane.
Permane was previously the Racing Director at the sister outfit. He expressed his honour at taking on the Team Principal position. Permane thanked Oliver Mintzlaff (CEO Corporate Projects and Investments for Red Bull GmbH) and Helmut Marko (Red Bull advisor) for their trust in his capabilities. He looks forward to collaborating with Peter Bayer to continue the progress made by Mekies and Bayer at Racing Bulls. Permane acknowledged the role is a new challenge but is confident in the support from the team. Mekies himself endorsed Permane as the “perfect man” for the job, highlighting Permane’s deep knowledge of the team and his role as a “pillar” in their recent successes.
Official Confirmation and Future Implications
A statement from Red Bull confirmed Horner’s release from his operational duties and Mekies’ appointment. Oliver Mintzlaff extended thanks to Christian Horner for his “exceptional work” over two decades, acknowledging his vital role in building the team and assuring that he “will forever remain an important part of our team history.” Team staff were reportedly informed of the decision on Wednesday morning, just before the public announcement. While a statement from Christian Horner himself is anticipated, none has been issued yet.
The leadership change arrives at a critical juncture for Red Bull Racing. Beyond the performance issues and internal dynamics, the future of star driver Max Verstappen has been a subject of speculation. Verstappen is contracted until 2028 but reportedly holds an exit clause. Some speculation suggests Horner’s departure could potentially influence Verstappen’s long-term commitment to the team, either positively or negatively depending on the underlying tensions. The transition period under new leadership will be closely watched by competitors, fans, and the F1 media as Red Bull navigates this significant shift in direction and seeks to regain its championship-challenging form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly happened with Christian Horner leaving Red Bull?
Christian Horner has left his positions as CEO and Team Principal of Red Bull Racing with immediate effect as of Wednesday, July 9, 2025. This ends his 20-year tenure leading the Formula 1 team. The departure was announced following the British Grand Prix.
Why did Christian Horner leave Red Bull Racing after 20 years?
While Red Bull did not state a specific reason, his departure follows a period of significant internal turbulence. This includes lingering effects from an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior (though cleared), reported power struggles within the organization, and a notable decline in the team’s performance during the current 2025 F1 season, where they are currently running fourth in the constructors’ championship.
Who is taking over Christian Horner’s role at Red Bull, and what are the other changes?
Laurent Mekies, previously the Team Principal of Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, has been appointed as the new CEO of Red Bull Racing. As part of the reshuffle, Alan Permane, formerly Racing Director at Racing Bulls, has been promoted to Team Principal at the Racing Bulls team, taking over Mekies’ previous role.