Christian Horner admitted his sacking as Red Bull team principal had come as a “shock” as he made a tearful farewell speech at the team’s factory.
The 51-year-old was informed of his dismissal – after 20 years in charge – on Tuesday but was given the opportunity to address his former employees at Red Bull’s UK base in Milton Keynes on Wednesday.
Sky Sports News has obtained footage of Horner’s farewell speech, during which he broke down in tears and received lengthy ovations from his former colleagues.
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Sky Sports’ Craig Slater is joined by F1 commentator David Croft to discuss the timeline of how Christian Horner’s sacking as Red Bull’s team principal came about.
Horner said: “Yesterday, I was informed by Red Bull that operationally I would no longer be involved with the business or the team moving forward.
“I will still remain employed by the company, but, operationally the baton will be handed over.
“It came as a shock to myself. I’ve had a chance to reflect over the last 12 hours and wanted to stand in front of all of you to break this news and to express my gratitude to each and every single member of the team that has given so much during the last 20-and-a-half years.
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Martin Brundle reflects on the news that Christian Horner has been sacked by Red Bull with immediate effect after 20 years as team principal of the Formula 1 team.
“When I arrived 20 years ago, there were a few less grey hairs. I walked into a team and did not know what to expect but I was immediately welcomed and we started to build what became a powerhouse in F1.
“Watching and being part of this team, has been the biggest privilege of my life.”
When Horner says he will remain employed by the company, he is referring to exit terms that will see him remain on gardening leave until the end of the year.
Sky Sports F1‘s Martin Brundle said Horner had told him “no reason was given to him” for his release. Red Bull’s statement announcing the decision did not give a reason.
Horner was speaking before Red Bull had confirmed that he would be replaced by Laurent Mekies, who steps up from running sister squad Racing Bulls, but said the Frenchman has his backing.
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Sky Sports F1’s Craig Slater breaks down why, after 20 years in charge, team principal Christian Horner has left Red Bull following an ongoing
Horner said: “A new CEO will be announced shortly. I trust him and give him my full support. My instruction to him is to look after all of you.
“I have fought hard, I’ve done my best, I’ve put in a big shift and it now comes to a close.”
Horner has overseen two periods of dominance by Red Bull in Formula 1, with Sebastian Vettel and the team winning four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ championships from 2010-2013, and Max Verstappen winning the last four drivers’ championships from 2021-2024. Red Bull were also constructors’ champions in 2022 and 2023.
His exit comes ahead of the first season in which Red Bull will produce their own engine, with the team having decided to set up its own operation to coincide with the introduction of new regulations in 2026.
Horner added: “What lies ahead with [Red Bull] Powertrains is truly exciting and I will just be very sad I won’t be here to see the engine performance.”
F1 takes a brief break before the season resumes at the Belgian Grand Prix as the Sprint format returns, live on Sky Sports F1 on July 25-27. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – no contract, cancel anytime.
