Red Bull Dismisses Horner as Team Principal Amid Performance Issues
Red Bull Racing has parted ways with Christian Horner, who was relieved of his duties as team principal and chief executive after over 20 years of leadership. This decision, announced in early July 2025, is attributed to several factors, with a significant decline in on-track performance cited as the primary reason for his dismissal.
Horner’s exit follows a period of success that included four consecutive drivers’ championships won by Max Verstappen from 2021 to 2024. However, the team has faced notable challenges recently, including a decline in performance that coincided with the departure of key personnel, such as renowned designer Adrian Newey. There were also serious allegations of inappropriate behavior made against Horner in February 2024, which he denied. An internal investigation cleared him of these claims.
Speaking to Sky Germany ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko confirmed, “The decision was made by the management – that is, Red Bull head of sporting projects Oliver Mintzlaff. We informed Christian Horner of it in London. At the same time, we officially thanked him for 20 years and eight world titles.” Marko emphasized that while various factors contributed to Horner’s dismissal, performance issues were at the forefront.
New Leadership and Future Challenges
Taking over from Horner is Laurent Mekies, who has been promoted from his role managing Red Bull’s junior team, Racing Bulls. Mekies’ appointment comes at a critical time as Red Bull looks to regain its competitive edge, especially after McLaren’s recent dominance in the 2025 season, highlighted by a one-two finish at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Marko expressed optimism regarding Mekies’ technical acumen, stating, “Luckily, we were able to bring in Laurent Mekies from within the Red Bull family. His role will be significantly more focused – primarily on racing.” He noted that Mekies is an “excellent engineer,” which is essential given the complexities of Formula 1 technology. Marko believes that this focused approach will help the team navigate the current challenges, allowing Mekies to direct his efforts primarily towards racing success.
This shift in leadership aligns with a broader trend in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly appointing individuals with strong engineering backgrounds as team principals. Marko highlighted the potential advantages of this strategy, saying, “Other teams have gone this route before us. The scope of the role has been clearly reduced, allowing Mekies to concentrate on the technical side while separate departments handle marketing and other projects.”
Verstappen’s Reaction and Team Dynamics
Following the announcement of Horner’s departure, speculation arose regarding its impact on Verstappen’s future with the team, particularly amid rumors linking him to a potential move to Mercedes. Verstappen, speaking at the Belgian Grand Prix, maintained that he has a strong relationship with Horner and accepted the management’s decision without reservation.
His father, Jos Verstappen, had previously called for Horner’s exit in March 2024, shortly after the misconduct allegations surfaced. However, Max Verstappen distanced himself from any involvement in the decision-making process, stating, “They decided to change. I’m fine with everything.” When reminded of his earlier calls for Horner’s dismissal, he clarified, “That was one and a half years ago. It’s different now. I have nothing to say. It’s fine.”
As Formula 1 heads towards the Hungarian Grand Prix, teams, including Red Bull, are preparing for a crucial stretch of the season. With Mekies at the helm, Red Bull aims to close the performance gap and re-establish itself as a leading contender in the championship.
