Christian Horner has stated that his dismissal as Red Bull team principal came as a `shock`, delivering an emotional farewell speech at the team`s factory base.
The 51-year-old, who had been at the helm for 20 years, received news of his departure on Tuesday. He was subsequently given the chance to address his former colleagues at Red Bull`s UK facility in Milton Keynes on Wednesday.
Footage obtained by Sky Sports News captured moments from Horner`s speech, showing him becoming visibly emotional and shedding tears, receiving lengthy applause from the staff present.
“Yesterday, Red Bull informed me that I would no longer be operationally involved with the business or the team going forward,” Horner stated. “While I will technically remain employed by the company, operational leadership is being transferred. This came as a shock to me. I`ve used the past 12 hours to reflect and wanted to personally deliver this news to you all and convey my deepest thanks to every single team member who has contributed so much over the past twenty and a half years.”
Reflecting on his long tenure, he added:
“When I first joined 20 years ago, with a little less grey hair, I joined a team uncertain of what lay ahead. But I was instantly welcomed, and together we built what is now an F1 powerhouse. Witnessing and participating in this team`s journey has truly been the greatest privilege of my life.”
His mention of remaining employed refers to his exit arrangements, including gardening leave expected to last until the end of the year.
According to Sky Sports F1`s Martin Brundle, Horner indicated that he was given “no reason” for his termination, a detail also absent from Red Bull`s official statement announcing the decision.
Horner delivered his speech before Red Bull officially confirmed Laurent Mekies, who led their sister team Racing Bulls, as his replacement, expressing his full support for the Frenchman.
He continued: “A new CEO will be announced soon. I trust this person and offer my complete support. My directive to them is to take care of everyone here. I`ve fought hard, given my absolute best, put in a tremendous effort, and now this chapter closes.”
Over his time in charge, Horner oversaw two major periods of dominance for Red Bull in Formula 1. This included four consecutive Driver and Constructor titles with Sebastian Vettel (2010-2013), followed by Max Verstappen`s four consecutive Driver championships (2021-2024), alongside Constructor wins in 2022 and 2023.
His departure occurs shortly before the 2026 season, when Red Bull is scheduled to introduce their own engine unit, developed in anticipation of the new technical regulations.
Regarding the future, Horner commented: “The prospect for Red Bull Powertrains is genuinely exciting, and I`m truly saddened that I won`t be present to witness the engine`s performance.”
Tribute to Rivals
In a separate statement later posted on social media, Horner extended his thanks not only to his Red Bull colleagues but also, notably, to the team`s competitors.
In his message, he wrote: “My thanks also go to our rivals – without whom there would be no racing. You have challenged and pushed us, helping us achieve things we never thought possible. Competition makes every win more rewarding and every setback a chance to improve. F1 thrives on ambition, passion, and respect. The rivalries have been intense, but the shared goal to innovate and excel is what defines this special journey. It has been an honour to participate in this remarkable era of motorsport. I depart with immense pride in our accomplishments and anticipation for the 2026 projects, alongside great respect for everyone who elevates F1 to its current standing.”
