Red Bull Sacks Horner, Mekies Named New Boss

Christian Horner has been dismissed as Red Bull Racing's team principal after 20 years, ending a period in which the team won eight drivers’ and six constructors’ championships. Horner delivered an emotional farewell in person to staff, expressing pride in Red Bull’s rise and gratitude to all stakeholders. His exit follows a turbulent period marked by internal disputes, strained relationships with key figures such as Max Verstappen’s father, and publicized allegations of inappropriate behavior, for which Horner was twice cleared. Red Bull now sits fourth in the constructors’ standings, with recent high-profile departures leaving its leadership structure severely weakened. Laurent Mekies will take over as CEO and team principal amid broad uncertainty about the team’s future and Max Verstappen’s commitment. The F1 paddock has reacted strongly, with experts warning that Red Bull’s competitiveness is at risk.