09.07.2025 14:50
Christian Horner, one of the most recognized team principals in Formula 1, has been dismissed after a 20-year career at Red Bull. Horner, who had been leading the team since 2005, faced significant backlash due to inappropriate messages sent to a female employee. The unrest within the team and declining performances made this separation inevitable. Laurent Mekies has been appointed as Horner's replacement.
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One of the most recognized team principals in Formula 1, Christian Horner, was suddenly dismissed after a 20-year career at Red Bull.
Horner, who had been at the helm of the team since 2005, was the longest-serving team principal in F1. However, last year he faced significant backlash due to inappropriate messages sent to a female employee (sexting scandal). Although he was cleared twice in internal investigations, the unrest within the team and declining performances made this separation inevitable.
"Christian was a visionary leader who brought Red Bull Racing to where it is today. We thank him for his contributions over the past 20 years. He will always be a part of our team's history," he said.
Laurent Mekies has been appointed as Horner's replacement. He will make his debut as the new team principal at the Belgian Grand Prix on July 27.
Another reason for the dismissal was the long-standing tension between Horner and Max Verstappen's father, Jos Verstappen.
Jos has repeatedly accused Horner of being the "divisive person" in the team and argued that he should be removed from his position.
Most recently, they had a heated argument in front of cameras at the Silverstone GP.
In early 2024, allegations surfaced in the media that Horner had sent inappropriate messages to a female employee.
The female employee indicated that she was uncomfortable with these messages, but Horner denied the allegations. He was found innocent after two separate investigations.
Despite this, the traces of the incident remained both within the team and in public opinion.
His wife, Geri Halliwell, known as Ginger Spice from the Spice Girls, stood by Horner during the scandal.
Horner stated in interviews, "My wife has been very supportive by looking at me from the outside."
Red Bull in Decline, Is Verstappen Moving to Mercedes?
Red Bull has suffered significant losses during this process.
Designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley left the team.
The team has fallen 288 points behind McLaren. There are also rumors that Max Verstappen will move to Mercedes at the end of the season.
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